Commentary: Preventing, managing allergies

link U.S. Air Force graphic: Senior Airman Alexxis Pons Abascal

27th Special Operations Medical Operations Squadron

“Ah-Ah-Ah-choo!” This is possibly the sound of your morning sneezing attacks. Watery and itchy eyes, a nose that is dripping like a leaky faucet and so much congestion. Suffering from these symptoms at certain times of the year or with weather changes is symptomatic of allergies, allergic rhinitis, or ‘hay fever’.

The bodies of people who have allergies treat inhaled mold, pollen, and dust allergens as invaders and release chemicals, including histamine, to defend against them.

These chemicals cause the symptoms that people experience. People can be allergic to more than one type of pollen or mold and their allergies change depending on what part of the country they are in. Allergies can strike at any time, even if they have never occurred before.

Allergies are diagnosed through symptoms and history, the pattern of symptoms that return at particular times of year or to particular allergens. Particular allergens can also be identified through allergy testing - either a skin or blood test.

This invasive testing is useful for allergy shots and allergen avoidance; but since most people cannot avoid being outside, testing may be unnecessary.

While there is no cure for allergies, they can be managed and symptoms relieved. The first step is eliminating exposure. Keep windows closed and avoid being outside during dust storms, allergy season, high pollen counts, and when people are mowing their lawns. Use air conditioning when possible. Rinse off in the shower after being outside and use a sinus rinse kit to flush allergens from the nose.

Medications such as decongestants, antihistamines, and steroid nasal sprays may also reduce symptoms. For those with daily symptoms, antihistamines and steroid nasal sprays should be used continuously. For those with occasional symptoms, medications can be taken as needed.

If symptoms cannot be managed with avoidance and medication, a primary care provider may recommend allergy shots (immunotherapy) which gradually causes desensitization. Allergy shots are a commitment. The immunotherapy is made specifically for the patient and requires a series of injections over a 5 year period, starting with one per week, and is gradually spaced out over time.

People with seasonal allergies may also suffer from asthma. Asthma is a chronic condition that causes acute inflammation to the airway after breathing in an offending substance.

Asthma attacks can be triggered by allergies. Symptoms include: cough, wheezing, shortness of breath and difficulty breathing. These symptoms can be relieved with a quick acting bronchodilator. Inhaled steroids can also relieve the underlying inflammation and are used for the long-term management of asthma.

Call the 27th Special Operations Medical Group appointment line at 575-784-2778 with any questions or concerns about allergies and ask to speak to a health care specialist.