April Showers Bring May Flowers And Plenty Of Pollen, Too

Main Category: Allergy
Also Included In: Ear, Nose and Throat;  Public Health
Article Date: 16 Apr 2007 - 0:00 PDT

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With allergy season in full bloom, the American Academy of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery is offering a reminder of what you can do to cope with the pollen in the air, and how an ear, nose, and throat specialist can help.

This spring, pollen from blooming trees and plants will join other allergens in affecting over 45 million Americans, causing itching eyes, sneezing, nasal stuffiness, nasal congestion and drainage, and sometimes headache. This year, some areas are reporting record-high pollen counts, which are sure to impact the people breathing that yellow, dust-like allergen.

Some people may experience hearing changes, scratchy sore throats, hoarseness, and cough. In the most serious situations, allergies can lead to balance disturbances, swelling in face or throat tissues, skin irritations, and even respiratory problems and asthma.

However, just because you might be sensitive to pollen, it does not mean you have to avoid those spring flowers that are appearing on every corner; colorful or fragrant flowering plants rarely cause allergy because their pollens are too heavy to be airborne.

Who has the best training to help you cope with allergies? Your otolaryngologist.

Otolaryngologists (known commonly as ear, nose, and throat doctors) have extensive training in the diagnosis, testing, and treatment of allergies and are experts with sinus problems or other complications from nasal allergy. To find an otolaryngologist in your area, go to the Academy's website at http://www.entnet.org/ent_otolaryngologist.cfm.

The only "cure" available for inhalant allergy is the administration of small doses of the offending substance that build up protective antibodies to those specific allergens (including pollen). Injection and sublingual therapy are common ways to administer this relief.

A number of medications are useful in the treatment of allergy including antihistamines, nasal decongestant sprays, steroid sprays, and saline sprays. The medical management of allergy also includes counseling in proper environmental control.

Tips for Controlling Your Allergen Environment:

-- Wear a pollen mask when mowing grass or house cleaning (most drugstores sell them).

-- Change the air filters monthly in heating and air conditioning systems, and/or install an air purifier.

-- Keep windows and doors closed during heavy pollen seasons.

-- Rid your home of indoor plants and other sources of mildew.

-- Use antihistamine and decongestants as necessary and as tolerated.

-- Sleep with a brick or two placed under bedposts at the head of the bed to help relieve nasal congestion.

-- Observe general good health practices; exercise daily, stop smoking, avoid air pollutants, eat a balanced diet, and supplement your diet with vitamins, especially C.

A report on sublingual (under-the-tongue) immunotherapy is included as a supplement to the March 2007 issue of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, the Academy's medical journal.

About the AAO-HNS

The American Academy of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery (http://www.entnet.org), one of the oldest medical associations in the nation, represents more than 12,000 physicians and allied health professionals who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the ears, nose, throat, and related structures of the head and neck. The Academy serves its members by facilitating the advancement of the science and art of medicine related to otolaryngology and by representing the specialty in governmental and socioeconomic issues. The organization's mission: "Working for the Best Ear, Nose, and Throat Care."

American Academy of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery (AAOHNS)
One Prince St.
Alexandria, VA 22314
United States
http://www.entnet.org

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