A Brief Summary of Allergies For Our Patients

Common Allergens:
Pollen Sources
  Weeds
  Trees
  Grasses
Indoor Allergens
  Animal Danders
  Dust Mites
  Molds

Allergen Avoidance:
Dust Mites
  Use hypoallergenic bedding
  Wash bedding/sheets in HOT water
  Vacuum often with a fine filter vacuum

Pollen
  Stay indoors during peak allergy pollen times (10AM - 4PM)
  Shower after coming in from outside
  Keep doors and windows closed

Pets
  Wash pets often
  Keep pets out of bedrooms
  Vacuum or mop carpets and floors often

Molds
  Limit house plants
  Reduce moisture in bathrooms/kitchens
  Use a dehumidifier

Common Symptoms of Allergic Rhinitis:
  Sneezing
  Runny nose/watery eyes
  Itchy nose/eyes
  Nasal congestion

Medicines commonly Used For Allergies:
   Antihistamines (non-sedating)- usually effective against sneezing, runny nose, and itching/watery eyes. Also available in nasal spray form
   Decongestants- effective for relieving nasal congestion. Avoid nasal spray forms
   Combination medications- Decongestant and Antihistamine- help to relieve all above symptoms in one medication. Now also available in a single nasal spray form. 
    Nasal corticosteroid sprays- considered the most effective treatment for relieving nasal symptoms of allergic rhinitis.

For more information about allergies