Just as many of us are venturing outside to enjoy the warm springtime weather,all the new leaves, grasses and flowers send forth an amazing amount of pollen triggering the start of Allergy Season.

Allergies and 'hay fever' result from a production of Immuglobulin E antibodies stirred up by our immune systems to fight the invasion of pollen entering our overloaded respiratory systems! These antibodies trigger a further release of chemicals which intturn produce the all to familiar sniffles, sneezes, and watery eyes.

While some studies suggest a genetic link,several other influences also work together to trigger our allergies. These 'triggers' may include hormones,stress and environmental irritants including dust and pollutants that add to the unusually high pollen counts this time of year.

Many people find relief from the widely available over-the-counter meds out there.
You may want to consider medical testing and treatment for long-term persistent allergies as 'simple hay fever' can lead to respiratory and sinus infections.
After testing, and gathering a personal medical history, doctors recommend treatments tailored to the individual.

Some recommendations for treating seasonal allergies include;

Use of antihistamines or leukotriene inhibitors,
saline washes,
nasal steroid sprays and
eye drops.

In severe cases 'allergy shots' may be prescribed and are administered over a series of visits in the Dr's office.

Regardless of whether the medications are over-the-counter or prescribed, most people don't begin treatment soon enough. Instead they wait until they are totally overwhelmed and miserable before beginning treatment.

The best defense is a good offense during allergy season! Start taking your medications at the very first sign of symptoms or even simply at the beginning of the allergy season for optimal relief and possibly even prevention of a major flareup.

Don't let seasonal allergies stop you from enjoying this early warm weather. See a Dr for the best options available to treat your symptoms.

Learn more about this author, Debra Cornelius.
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