Golden Opportunities

I don’t have to tell those of you who are wheezing and sneezing that allergy season is here. And this spring has been especially nasty on our noses. But today we want to take a breather and offer you some welcome relief. Here to help us alleviate those allergies so you can stop and smell the roses is Dr. Bella Faltay, an allergist at Akron Medical Center.

Question: Allergy season this spring has been horrible. Why is this year particularly bad?

Answer: Allergies are unusually bad this spring because of we've experienced a weather pattern that has set up a high pollen count. We've had a mild but wet winter and a mild, warm spring. Spring became mild early and we had many days of rain but little frost and not a late, heavy snow like last year that eliminated much of the pollen.

Question: What are people actually allergic to during the spring?

Answer: From March through May, the main culprit is tree pollen. Birch and maple are around the first to pollinate. Oak is among the last. Around the end of May, most trees are done pollinating.
Grass pollen season is from late May through late June and, if the weather wet, into July.
While wet weather in mid-May this year helped relieve those suffering from tree pollen, it set up a high grass pollen season as well.

Question: What are the symptoms of allergies? How can you differentiate them from a cold?

Answer: Seasonal allergies in the spring and fall tend to have more itchy symptoms-itchy, watery eyes, itchy ears, sneezing, etc. However, all-year allergies, like those to cat dander or dust mites, might have symptoms that mimic a chronic cold, such as congestion. A chronic cough is also a sign of allergies.
Seniors may also have other kinds of rhinitis, or runny, drippy nose, which have more to do with change of weather or odors such as food or perfume, and are not allergies.
If someone suspects they may have allergies, the doctor may take a personal history and ask what time of year symptoms occur. Allergies are most commonly diagnosed through skin testing-a prick test on the back or forearm. Any pricks that become itchy and red signify an allergy. Those who are tested are given an antihistamine and most lose their symptoms after about two hours.

Question: How do you diagnose an allergy?

Answer: The doctor may take a personal history and ask what time of year symptoms occur. Allergies are mot commonly diagnosed through skin testing—a prick test on the back or forearm. Any pricks that become itchy and red signify an allergy. Those who are tested are given an antihistamine and most lose their symptoms after about two hours

Question: What are some common treatments for allergies?

Answer: New treatments have been developed that are more effective and have less side effects.

• Antihistamines are a common treatment. The oldest, Benadryl, often sedates patients too much. Newer generations do not make people as drowsy and last much longer.
• Nasal steroids treat congestion. Decongestions may also be used but are considered less favorable because they may raise blood pressure or may cause urinary retention, especially in men.
• There are now antihistamine eye drops and nose sprays.
• Leukotrienes block the reaction of swelling in allergy sufferers, and may be used in the treatment of asthma as well. An example would be Singulair.
• Those with severe allergies may require allergy shots, beginning on a weekly basis then becoming biweekly/monthly over a period of 3 to 5 years. This treatment, when completed, lasts for years. In fact, if people have to come back for more treatment, it's usually because a new allergy has developed, not because an old one has returned.

Question: Do any of these cause interactions with other common drugs for seniors?

Answer: Some can. Decongestants can raise blood pressure and cause urine retention.

Question: Are any other over-the-counter treatments effective?

Answer: Some antihistamines like Claritin. For short term, nasal decongestants like Afrin and Neosynephrin, but after three days can make you worse.

Question: Are there non-drug options to try first, for example keeping the windows closed ro buying an air filter?

Answer: Yes. With grass pollens, put car on recycle, not fresh air option. Also enclose mattress to keep out dust mites, and wash in hot water, dry in high heat. Air purifiers work, but they are noisy and you must use them regularly. Get rid of pets if allergic.

Question: Will any complications develop if allergies are not treated?

Answer: Sometimes allergies may contribute to the development of adult asthma, but most often, treatment of allergies is to improve the quality of life. Allergy symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing and wheezing can really prevent people from doing the things they'd like to do.

Before you grab a tissue, grab the phone and dial up some relief. Give Akron General a call. My thanks to Dr. Faltay.