Jamie Lynn Morgan asked me on Facebook today what allergens are common this time of year…
Excellent question that unfortunately is difficult to answer. Where you live, work and play has a major impact on the substances that trigger sneezing, itching, watery eyes and runny nose. Here in the Pacific Northwest, where rain is king this time of year, molds and mildew are major allergens. Because we spend much our of time indoors due to the cold weather, greater exposure to house dust and pet dander are also frequent triggers. Generally speaking, decreasing the amount of allergen by removing damp carpet, removing dust with a HEPA equipped vacuum cleaner and limiting (if possible) the time dogs and cats spend indoors can be helpful. If symptoms persist, OTC antihistamines such as Claritin or Zyrtec are the next step. Frequently, however, prescription pills, nasal sprays and eye drops need to be added to give the patient adequate relief…..Richard R Samuel, MD Family Practice and Urgent Care Hayden, ID USA
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