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Allergy Relief / Seasonal Allergy / Spring Season Means Allergy Season
Spring Season Means Allergy Season
Josh Poland
COLORADO SPRINGS - Spring officially arrives Thursday, and with it comes the dreaded spring allergy season.
When we talk about spring allergies, we're mainly talking about allergies to tree pollen. For those who have these allergies, the coming weeks aren't expected to be too pleasant.
"It's every year. It just hit me a couple of days ago actually," says allergy sufferer Kim Sutz. "I can tell exactly when it starts. So it's definitely here. My main symptom is drainage from my sinuses to my throats, which causes some coughing."
Unfortunately, experts aren't predicting any rest for the weary this season.
"I'm expecting a very strong allergy season this spring for sure," says Dr. William Storms. He blames a cold winter for allergy problems this year.
"(Pollens) usually come out in March. This year they've been a little bit delayed because of the cold winter, but once the weather warms up they'll be really high."
Dr. Storms tells NEWSCHANNEL 13 that sometimes it is difficult to tell the difference between allergies, colds and sinus problems.
"Most people have sneezing, runny nose, itching, and red, watery eyes. If they have sinus problems, they're going to get more nasal congestion, blockage, post-nasal drip, sometimes aches and pains. Just not feeling well."
Dr. Storms says many times his patients cannot distinguish allergies from sinus problems because the two are similar.
"They can mimic allergies but they have a lot more drainage. They have congestion."
He says patients with sinus problems often don't realize they have sinus issues unless they have a CAT scan. Finding the root of the problem can prevent unnecessary and unsuccessful medication.
"Many people get antibiotics and they can have a five day antibiotic, but they're right back into it three months later."
His best advice for allergy treatment is first to head to the nearest drugstore and buy a good antihistamine--one that does not cause drowsiness.
If symptoms still last after a few days, consult a physician.
More often than not, your doctor can prescribe a stronger medication that will take care of the problem.
From http://www.krdo.com/Global/story.asp?S=8042215&nav
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DISCLAIMER: The information contained in this site is for educational purposes only, and should not be used as a substitute for personal care by a licensed physician. Please see your physician for diagnosis and treatment of any concerning symptoms or medical condition.
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