Seasonal Allergies – 3 Ways to Find Relief

Experts believe climate change is causing longer and more severe allergy seasons. As the seasons change, you may find some relief, or new symptoms may occur, depending on what allergens you’re sensitive to.

You don’t have to suffer in silence. Get your allergies under control.

1. Avoidance: Once you know what you’re allergic to, try to avoid it. Run the air conditioning instead of opening windows if you are allergic to pollen. Purchase allergyproof mattresses and pillows and keep humidity low if you are allergic to dust.
2. Medication: Allergy sufferers may benefit from both over-the-counter and prescription medications. Eye drops, nose sprays and oral medications can alleviate many symptoms.
3. Allergy Shots: Allergy shots expose your immune system to small amounts of an allergen to build your tolerance. Injections are administered over time and the goal is to change the way your immune system responds.

“Allergy symptoms can interfere with how you function day and night,” says Rana Misiak, M.D., an allergist and immunologist at Henry Ford Health System. “Knowing what you’re allergic to and how to minimize exposure, can improve your quality of life.”

Find a primary care doctor or allergist at Henry Ford or call 1-800-HENRYFORD (436-7936).