ApplenMicro

An Unwelcome Return! 10 Tips to Ease Allergy Symptoms

 

Fredericksburg, VA -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/13/2013 -- Area residents are keeping their tissue boxes close by in preparation for the peak of the spring allergy season. The budding trees and blooming flowers associated with the return of spring mark an increase in itchy, watery eyes, sneezing and other allergy symptoms.

Seasonal allergic rhinitis, or “hay fever,” affects more than 20% of the people living in theUnited States, according to theAmericanAcademyof Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI). Allergies are triggered by substances called allergens, such as pollen or mold spores. Many trees, grasses and weeds contain small and light pollens that are easily carried by the wind, causing allergy symptoms to flare up in the spring.

“One of the best ways to help prevent allergy attacks is to start taking medication prescribed by your physician about a week before peak allergy season in your area begins.” said Dr. Andrew Kim. “With continued use of medication and avoidance of potential triggers, allergic symptoms can be minimized.”

In addition to timing medication, Dr. Kim offers the following tips to help allergy sufferers find some relief this spring:

- Do a thorough spring cleaning - windows, book shelves and air conditioning vents collect dust and mold throughout the winter that can provoke allergy symptoms.
- Minimize outdoor activity when pollen counts are high. Peak pollen times are usually between 10 amand 4 pm. Get up-to-date pollen information for your area from the National Allergy Bureau at www.aaaai.org/nab or www.allergyasthmadoctors.com.
- Take medications at least 30 minutes prior to outdoor activity. Consult with your doctor to ensure medications are helping you and notify your doctor when reactions to medications occur.
- Shut windows in your house on days pollen counts are high. Avoid using windows or fans that may draw pollen inside.
- Wash bedding weekly in hot water.
- Dry laundry indoors. Sheets hanging on an outside line are an easy target for blowing pollen.
- Shower and wash your hair before bed - pollen can collect on your hair and skin.
- Keep pets off of furniture and out of the bedroom. Pollen can cling to the dog or cat after being outside.
- Keep car windows closed during peak season. Use air conditioning and point vents away from face.
- When mowing lawn or doing gardening, wear a filter mask.

Seek proper treatment prior to and during your peak allergy season:

If you are an allergy sufferer, consult with an allergist/immunologist to discuss treatment and environmental control options. An allergist/immunologist is the best-qualified medical professional trained to manage the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of allergies and asthma.

The AAAAI is the largest professional medical specialty organization in the United Statesrepresenting allergists, asthma specialists, clinical immunologists, allied health professionals and others with a special interest in the research and treatment of allergic disease. Allergy/immunology specialists are pediatric or internal medicine physicians who have elected an additional two years of training to become specialized in the treatment of asthma, allergy and immunologic disease. Established in 1943, the AAAAI has more than 6,000 members in the United States, Canadaand 60 other countries. The AAAAI serves as an advocate to the public by providing educational information through its Web site at www.aaaai.org.

Contact: Andrew S. Kim MD
540-371-6810

Allergy and Asthma Center of Fredericksburg, Ltd
Seth C. Craig III MD Andrew S. Kim MD
Diplomats of
American Board of Pediatrics
American Board of Internal Medicine
American Board of Allergy & Immunology

College Heights Professional Building
1300 Thornton Street Suite #200
Fredericksburg, VA 22401
Tel:(540) 371-6810 Fax:(540) 371-9154
http://allergyasthmadoctors.com