Allergies
North Florida Center for Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Facial Plastic Surgery, PA
This website uses information supplied from the AAO-HNS.

• Allergies and Hay fever
  Hay fever describes the symptoms of runny nose, itchy eyes and throat, uncontrollable sneezing and sometimes itching of the skin.

• Antihistamines, Decongestants, and "Cold" Remedies
  Drugs for stuffy nose, sinus trouble, congestion, and the common cold constitute the largest segment of the over-the-counter market for America's pharmaceutical industry. When used wisely, they provide welcome relief for at least some of the discomforts that affect almost everyone occasionally and that affect many people chronically.

 

Tips for Controlling your environment

Information supplied from the AAO-HNS website

Tips for Controlling Your Environment:

• Wear a pollen mask when mowing grass or house cleaning (most drugstores sell them)
• Change the air filters monthly in heating and air conditioning systems, and/or install an air purifier.
• Keep windows and doors closed during heavy pollen seasons. Rid your home of indoor plants and other sources of mildew.
• Don't allow dander-producing animals (i.e., cats, dogs, etc.) in your home.
• Change feather pillows, woolen blankets, and woolen clothing to cotton or synthetic materials.
• Enclose mattress, box springs, and pillows in plastic barrier cloth.
• Use antihistamine and decongestants as necessary and as tolerated.
• Sleep with a brick or two placed under bedposts at the head of the bed to help relieve nasal congestion.
• Observe general good health practices; exercise daily, stop smoking, avoid air pollutants, eat a balanced diet, and supplement diet with vitamins, especially C.
• Consider a humidifier in the winter. Dry, indoor heat aggravates many allergic people. Be sure to clean the humidifier regularly.