Breathe Easier: Conquer Hay Fever in Houston
Springtime in Houston … where the patio beckons with cool drinks and the bayou calls you and your bike, but hay fever may be putting a damper on your plans. First, let’s understand what’s got you feeling so uncomfortable.
What is Hay Fever?
Hay fever, another name for allergic rhinitis, is a common allergic condition that affects millions of people across the country, especially during spring and fall when pollen levels are high. In Houston, where the air is thick with humidity and the flowers are abundant, it can be particularly brutal.
Common Allergens in Houston
- Pollen: Houston’s diverse flora includes trees like oak, cedar and pine, which release pollen that can trigger allergic reactions.
- Mold Spores: The warm and humid climate of Houston provides the perfect breeding ground for mold, which can be found indoors and outdoors, especially after rain.
- Dust Mites: These microscopic pests thrive in warm, humid conditions, triggering allergic reactions year-round.
- Pet Dander: For pet lovers in Houston, cats, dogs and other furry friends can be a major source of allergens.
How to Treat Hay Fever
- Antihistamines: Over-the-counter antihistamines can help relieve sneezing, itching and a runny nose.
- Nasal Corticosteroids: These nasal sprays reduce inflammation in the nasal passages, providing long-term relief from symptoms. Nasal medications work better than oral medications in treating nasal and eye allergies but take a few days to fully kick in.
- Decongestants: Over-the-counter decongestants can help relieve nasal congestion but should be used sparingly to avoid rebound congestion.
- Eye Drops: Antihistamine eye drops can help alleviate itchy, watery eyes caused by hay fever.
- Nasal Irrigation: Rinsing the nasal passages with a saline solution can help remove allergens and mucus. This can be used prior to using nasal steroid sprays.
- Allergy Shots: For long-term relief from hay fever, allergy shots may be recommended. These injections help build up tolerance to allergens over time, reducing the severity of symptoms and the need for daily medications.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
At Allergy and ENT Associates, we understand the frustration of dealing with hay fever symptoms, especially in a city as vibrant as ours. Don’t let allergies hold you back this spring. Learn more about allergy testing and allergy shots. Together, we can help you breathe easier with a tailored-to-you solution to your allergies!
