Allergy Treatment: A Step–Wise Approach

With summer finally here, along with the sweet smell of lilac and the sound of lawnmowers, some of us have begun to experience some of the less pleasant signs of summer—allergies.

Symptoms of nasal congestion, sneezing, itching, and watery eyes are well known to allergy sufferers. Some of the lesser–known symptoms may be wheezing, sinus pain and pressure, ear fullness, and fatigue.

Allergies can be seasonal or may be related to year–round exposure to animals, dust, or molds.

Treatment for allergies has often been described as a step–wise approach.

Avoidance is the first step, so those of you trying to get out of yard work, here is your excuse.

The next step is medication for the rest of us. Several non-drowsy allergy medications are available without prescription. Most work best if taken at or just before the onset of your allergy season. The medication is also better taken regularly so as to minimize breakthrough symptoms.

There are also several prescription medications for the treatment of allergy. Nasal steroid sprays are one example for the treatment of your nasal and sinus symptoms. Others are available, so you might discuss your options with your provider.

Getting tested for your allergies with the option for immunotherapy, if other options fail, is your best next step. Several methods of allergy testing are available, each with its own merits and limitations.

Treatment options include allergy shots or allergy drops. Allergy drops given under the tongue is referred to Sublingual Immunotherapy and is a relatively new option for allergy treatment. Used in Europe for decades, sublingual allergy treatment is gaining popularity in the United States because of convenience and safety. As with testing methods, allergy treatment options have their advantages and disadvantages too.

Your best bet is to discuss these issues with your provider to see what option is the best for you. Cost, insurance coverage, and convenience often play a role.

With good advice and treatment, you will feel better. But be careful. You might lose your excuse to get out of cutting the grass.