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Seasonal Allergies in Full Bloom
SURVIVAL TIPS FOR ALLERGIES
Y
ou know the feeling. The sun is shining and you’re feeling inspired to go for a walk in the park. Then it hits. Sneezing. Itchy, watery eyes. Runny nose. Hives. Allergies have begun. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 50 million Americans suffer from allergies each year, with care Dr. Sima Momin costing an excess of $18 billion. Between the actual symptoms and the fuzziness that often accompanies common medicines, it can make allergies unbearable for some people. So what can be done to deal with the unwelcome sniffles? Here are five tips that can help.
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START TAKING MEDICINE EARLY IN THE SEASON
While you are at the doctor, ask what medicine works best for the allergies you are facing, and start taking it as soon as you can. “Being proactive can save you some frustration,” said Dr. Sima Momin, a primary care physician and internist with Houston Methodist Primary Care Group in West. Some of these medicines start becoming effective after a few doses, so the sooner you start them, the sooner you will feel relief. “Also keep in mind that different medicines work better for different people,” Momin said.
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Go online to schedule your appointment with a primary care physician. Visit houstonmethodist.org/ pcg/west-houston or call 832.522.8444.
KNOW THE CAUSE
Depending on your location, your allergies could actually be caused by a number of different factors. The best way to prepare for allergies is to know what you are up against. Visit with your doctor and ask for an allergy panel so you can know the source of your symptoms.
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Stop the Wheeze and Sneeze
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CHANGE YOUR CLOTHES WHEN YOU GET HOME AND WASH THEM OFTEN
Any time you leave your home, you are bringing pollen back with you on your shoes and clothing. Once you return home, change into clean clothes and put what you were wearing into a hamper or straight into the washing machine. Anything that limits your contact with the pollen can help.
USE YOUR AIR CONDITIONER
Running the air conditioner instead of opening windows keeps pollen outside. Make sure you clean your air conditioner’s filter to ensure the air coming into your home is allergen-free.
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CONSIDER A NASAL RINSE
Many people will shy away from the use of a neti pot or similar nasal saline rinse, but using one regularly during allergy season can help remove pesky allergens from your sinuses. “Once you get the hang of using a nasal rinse, the relief you feel will make it worth it. Follow directions and use distilled or otherwise filtered water every time you use it,” Momin said.
2 LEADING MEDICINE IN WEST HOUSTON/KATY
VIRTUAL URGENT CARE The next time you get sick, you can skip the waiting room. See our providers via video visit — 24/7, from wherever you are. Virtual Urgent Care is available through the MyMethodist app. Download it today or visit houstonmethodist.org/virtual-care to learn more.