Medically reviewed by
Richard C. Herring, MD
Warm weather is here and residents of Charlotte are looking forward to enjoying outdoor activities, such as swimming, playing tennis, golf, sailing, hiking. But all of this can be interrupted if you are one of over 40 million Americans who suffer from seasonal allergies (hay fever) or asthma.
Some Charlotte residents see changing weather as a time of sniffling, sneezing, itchy watery eyes and fearing that seasonal allergies will trigger an asthma attack. About 23 million people, including almost 7 million children, have asthma. A staggering 70% of asthmatics also have an allergic trigger.
Understanding Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis
There are multiple common symptoms of allergic rhinitis that include:
- A runny nose
- An itchy nose
- A stuffy nose
- Sneezing
- Coughing
- A sore or scratchy throat
- Watery eyes
- Itchy eyes
It is important to understand there can be many causes of allergic reactions, and some of those affect us seasonally. Anyone can develop allergies at any age, making it crucial to recognize the common triggers. Some causes of allergies include:
- Pollen
- Grass
- Pets
- Dust mites
- Cockroaches
- Perfume
- Cigarette smoke
Exposure to these and other substances causes your body to release a natural defense known as histamine to defend your body from allergens. The release of histamine in your body is part of what causes various symptoms such as a runny nose, sneezing or a scratchy throat.
Treatment Options for Seasonal Allergies
When allergies alone are the issue, DIY diagnosis and treatment may be helpful. If you have allergies that do not respond to simple treatment methods or your allergies are coupled with asthma, you should find a reliable allergy treatment facility in Charlotte. For those who are sure they have allergies, here are some tips for relief:
- Install a high-efficiency allergen filter on your air conditioning system
- The most recommended treatment for seasonal allergies is an intranasal corticosteroid like fluticasone propionate. A few of these types of sprays are over-the-counter and do not need a prescription. They help alleviate symptoms of nasal congestion, runny nose, and sometimes allergy-related eye symptoms.
- Non-drowsy oral antihistamines such as Zyrtec, Allegra, or Claritin have proven quite helpful in controlling multiple symptoms of allergies. For the best results when using these medicines take them as early in the day as possible. Relief is more complete if the medicine is taken before allergy symptoms show up.
- Nasal decongestant sprays are another way to relieve allergy symptoms. These over-the-counter medications tend to work well in the short-term if used on occasion and for a brief period of time. Many allergists tell patients not to use a nasal decongestant for more than three days as there is evidence that patients become dependent on it.
- Oral Decongestants are also available over-the-counter and help reduce symptoms. They function by constricting blood vessels, but can cause side effects like a rise in blood pressure, rapid heart rate, headaches, irritability, and nervousness. They should be used with caution, especially by patients with a history of uncontrolled high blood pressure, heart rhythm issues, glaucoma, or strokes.
Common Types of Seasonal Allergies and Their Management
Pollen Allergies
Pollen is likely one allergen that is almost impossible to avoid as it exists in abundance. Trees, flowers, grasses, weeds and other plants create pollen, making it ubiquitous. Since pollen is light and fluffy, it sticks to clothing, skin, and your pet’s coat from which it transfers to inside the home. People that are allergic to pollen react to it by:
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Nasal congestion
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
Managing Pollen Allergies
While it’s virtually impossible to successfully avoid pollen completely, you can use Allergy Forecast, a free tool that tells you anticipated pollen counts for the next four days. When counts are high, limit your outdoor activities. Use allergy protection inside your home, including HEPA filters and air cleaners on your AC system.
Dust Allergies
The symptoms of dust allergies are similar to pollen allergies, with the addition of itching. Dust allergy sufferers are most affected indoors, and symptoms often worsen following cleaning activities as dust particles become airborne.
Dust Allergy Triggers
Triggers for dust allergy sufferers include:
- Dust mites
- Cockroaches
- Pollen
- Pet fur, dander, or feathers
Managing Dust Allergies
- Remove wall to wall carpeting, especially in bedrooms
- Keep pets out of bedrooms
- Keep household humidity low
- Frequently wash bed linens in hot water and change them often
- Use “mite-proof” cases for pillows and mattresses
- Use a high-efficiency media filter in your air conditioning and heating unit
Long-Term Solutions and Professional Seasonal Allergy Treatment
Allergy testing by an allergist is the first step in identifying triggers. This is usually best performed by skin or blood testing.
Allergen immunotherapy (individualized allergy shots) is the best method for achieving long term change of allergy and asthma symptoms. Immunotherapy is the only allergy therapy that has been proven to prevent the progression of allergic disease, reduce the risk of developing allergic asthma, and provide long term remission after therapy ends. Studies show that with correct dosing and duration of immunotherapy, one can benefit as long as 10 years after completion.
Experience Seasonal Allergy Relief in Charlotte
Carolina Asthma & Allergy Center is the area’s largest asthma and allergy practice made up entirely of board-certified physicians. Serving the Charlotte area since 1952, we deliver patient-focused care to all ages. We are committed to educating the patient and caregiver, improving the quality of life, and maintaining our own high standard of expertise and care. Areas of specialty include food allergy, drug allergy, venom allergy, and asthma.
With 16 locations within and near Charlotte, NC staffed with allergists who are board certified by the American Board of Allergy and Immunology, we help patients Breathe, Live and ultimately Thrive by effectively treating and often curing allergy and asthma challenges. Contact us to make an appointment.
