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CBS News
16-04-2025
- Health
- CBS News
Enjoy the outdoors: preparing for spring allergies
Sponsored and provided by LifeBridge Health Spring is just around the corner and for many, its arrival signifies an end to hibernation-like habits formed in winter. From physical exercise such as walks, runs or bike rides to social occasions like picnics and cookouts, the warm weather presents a renewed opportunity to enjoy the outdoors. However, the season's change also brings about the return of something far from enjoyable: spring allergies. While a mere inconvenience for some, spring allergies present a serious deterrent to enjoying the outdoors for many others. For those with strong seasonal allergies, much of springtime's joy is overshadowed by persistent, uncomfortable symptoms such as runny nose, itchy eyes, itchy throat, sneezing and congestion. With smart habits and the right resources, spring need not be spent in a haze of allergic misery. Some may be surprised to learn that trees are the primary culprit for spring allergies. In the Baltimore area, common trees such as maple, oak, ash and birch begin to cause problems for those with allergies as early as late-February, and continue to shed pollen into April and May. Another primary contributor to spring allergies is grass. While grass releases less pollen than trees, the pollen it produces tends to be more allergenic. Grass pollens typically spread beginning in late April, continuing through early-to-mid June and sometimes later if there is a cooler, wetter start to the summer. Spring allergies can feel insurmountable, but the first line of defense is controlling the circumstances when and where you can. Taking account of how you sleep, for example, can be the first step in finding relief. As the season transitions from winter to spring and spring to summer, many people like to sleep with the window open, as it is no longer cold enough to turn on the heat, but not yet hot enough to use air conditioning. While cracking the window before bed can be tempting, it allows pollen to enter your room, exposing your bedding, clothes and body to allergens. "The best treatment for allergy is avoidance," says Jonathan Matz, MD , an allergist with the Sinai Division of Allergy and Immunology. Dr. Matz recommends closing the windows and instead using your air conditioner's fan function, which will cycle fresh air in from the outside while filtering out the pollen it carries. Other than avoidance, the best option for those suffering from seasonal allergies is over-the-counter medications . Non-sedating antihistamines such as Claritin, Allegra or Zyrtec and their respective generic counterparts will keep symptoms at bay, allowing you to enjoy beautiful spring days outside. Be proactive by making sure you're stocked up on these medications in advance, so that allergies are never an excuse to avoid outdoor activity. According to Dr. Matz, nasal steroid sprays like Flonase and Nasacort, which are also over-the-counter and have generic equivalents, are even more effective than the non-sedative antihistamines. Whether your preference is for popping a quick allergy pill or using a few sprays of nasal steroids in each nostril, the principle remains the same - seasonal allergy sufferers should always be well-stocked with medication in advance. Those whose allergies are unmanageable with over-the-counter medications alone may need to discuss other options with their doctor, such as prescription-grade antihistamine nasal sprays and decongestants and immunotherapy, which involves the use of allergy shots to increase patients' immunity over time. But on the whole, over-the-counter options are the most effective and convenient for the majority of people. Allergies are an unfortunate aspect of springtime for many people, but the best defense is preparedness. This spring, try keeping windows closed when you sleep so that you can start the day fresh and symptom-free. And before winter's chill has even fully left the air, make sure to stock up on your non-drowsy antihistamine of choice so that you're ready for the arrival of allergy season. With such convenient solutions readily available, no one needs to be excluded from the outdoor activities that make springtime special. If your allergy symptoms aren't well-managed with over-the-counter medication, make an appointment with an allergist today so that you don't miss out on springtime fun.
Yahoo
05-04-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
9 over-the-counter remedies to help you beat spring allergies
Fox News and its syndication partners may earn a commission if you buy through our referral links. This content was created by a team that works independently from the Fox newsroom. If you live with spring allergies and notice they have worsened in recent years, you are not alone. Research from the Department of Agriculture said that pollen season starts 20 days earlier, is 10 days longer, and features 21% more pollen than in 1990. That means that Americans with allergies now face more miserable days spent with runny noses, itchy eyes, coughing, and sneezing. The best way to beat spring allergies is to get in front of them. Several types of over-the-counter solutions can help ease allergy symptoms. Oral antihistamines, for example, can help relieve sneezing, itching, a stuffy or runny nose, and watery eyes. Corticosteroid nasal sprays can help relieve drippy noses. Some swear by nasal washes to remove dust, pollen, and other debris. You could also improve the quality of the air you breathe in your home by using an air purifier to remove allergens so that you have at least one haven when pollen counts are highest. Whatever your line of defense will be, make sure you work on your action plan before spring allergies kick up. Here are eight products to help you beat spring allergies: Original price: $28.47 Amazon Basic Care 24-Hour Allergy Relief treats both indoor and outdoor allergy symptoms. It relieves hay fever symptoms or other upper respiratory allergies for 24 hours. This bottle comes with 300 pills. Original price: $21.99 Read On The Fox News App Are you looking for more palatable relief? Try Alavert Allergy 24-Hour Relief in citrus burst flavor. Just one pill can relieve all day from sneezing, runny nose, itchy, watery eyes, and itching of the nose and throat. You can also order it from Walmart for $25.72. Original price: $17.41 Flonase Allergy Relief Nasal Spray is 72 ounces of non-drowsy allergy relief. Flonase provides 24-hour all-in-one relief from nasal congestion, sneezing, runny nose, itchy nose, and itchy and watery eyes. You can also order it at Cvs for $20.49. Original price: $16.21 Try Afrin No Drip Severe Congestion spray with menthol for instant nasal and sinus congestion relief. This nose decongestant is no match for even the most congested noses and provides relief in seconds for up to 12 hours. Order from Amazon or check order it for $16.46 at Walmart. The Coffee Connoisseur's Guide To The Top Coffee Pots For Every Type Of Coffee Drinker This three-pack of Arm & Hammer Simply Saline Daily Care Nasal Mist can complement any of the above medications. The nasal mist delivers a drug and steroid-free instant congestion relief. The gentle formula flushes out irritants and moisturizes dry nasal passages related to allergies, colds, flu, and sinusitis. You can also find your spray at Walgreens for $10.99. Original price: $109.95 Because allergy season seems to drag on forever, you might want to invest in this Navage Nasal Irrigation System. This drug-free nasal suction device works quickly to soothe nasal passages by sucking out mucus, allergens and germs. The system kit has one nose cleaner for adults, 30 salt pods, one pair of standard nose pillows, and two pre-installed AA batteries to get you started. You can also order one at Walmart. If you are new to air purifiers, this LEVOIT Air Purifier for Home Allergies is a good place to start. The Amazon best-selling purifier can clean air to every corner of a room up to 1095 sq. ft. The three-stage filtration system can filter airborne particles like dust, pollen, pet dander, bacteria, viruses, and mold spores. You can also order the air purifier directly from Levoit. 5 Easy Kitchen Updates You Can Make For Under $100 Original price: $189.99 This LEVOIT Air Purifier for large rooms can purify 1800 square feet in one hour. It has a washable pre-filter, air quality monitor and HEPA sleep mode. It also has a three-stage filter and is CARB-certified. For more deals, visit Original price: $349.99 This BLUEAIR Air Purifier can clean a 635 sq. ft room in about 12.5 minutes or a 1,524 sq. ft room in 30 minutes. It has a HEPA filter and is compatible with Amazon Alexa. Reviews note that it has an LED touch display and quiet operation. You can also order it straight from article source: 9 over-the-counter remedies to help you beat spring allergies
Fox News
05-04-2025
- Health
- Fox News
9 over-the-counter remedies to help you beat spring allergies
If you live with spring allergies and notice they have worsened in recent years, you are not alone. Research from the Department of Agriculture said that pollen season starts 20 days earlier, is 10 days longer, and features 21% more pollen than in 1990. That means that Americans with allergies now face more miserable days spent with runny noses, itchy eyes, coughing, and sneezing. The best way to beat spring allergies is to get in front of them. Several types of over-the-counter solutions can help ease allergy symptoms. Oral antihistamines, for example, can help relieve sneezing, itching, a stuffy or runny nose, and watery eyes. Corticosteroid nasal sprays can help relieve drippy noses. Some swear by nasal washes to remove dust, pollen, and other debris. You could also improve the quality of the air you breathe in your home by using an air purifier to remove allergens so that you have at least one haven when pollen counts are highest. Whatever your line of defense will be, make sure you work on your action plan before spring allergies kick up. Here are eight products to help you beat spring allergies: Original price: $28.47 Amazon Basic Care 24-Hour Allergy Relief treats both indoor and outdoor allergy symptoms. It relieves hay fever symptoms or other upper respiratory allergies for 24 hours. This bottle comes with 300 pills. Original price: $21.99 Are you looking for more palatable relief? Try Alavert Allergy 24-Hour Relief in citrus burst flavor. Just one pill can relieve all day from sneezing, runny nose, itchy, watery eyes, and itching of the nose and throat. You can also order it from Walmart for $25.72. Original price: $17.41 Flonase Allergy Relief Nasal Spray is 72 ounces of non-drowsy allergy relief. Flonase provides 24-hour all-in-one relief from nasal congestion, sneezing, runny nose, itchy nose, and itchy and watery eyes. You can also order it at CVS for $20.49. Original price: $16.21 Try Afrin No Drip Severe Congestion spray with menthol for instant nasal and sinus congestion relief. This nose decongestant is no match for even the most congested noses and provides relief in seconds for up to 12 hours. Order from Amazon or check order it for $16.46 at Walmart. This three-pack of Arm & Hammer Simply Saline Daily Care Nasal Mist can complement any of the above medications. The nasal mist delivers a drug and steroid-free instant congestion relief. The gentle formula flushes out irritants and moisturizes dry nasal passages related to allergies, colds, flu, and sinusitis. You can also find your spray at Walgreens for $10.99. Original price: $109.95 Because allergy season seems to drag on forever, you might want to invest in this Navage Nasal Irrigation System. This drug-free nasal suction device works quickly to soothe nasal passages by sucking out mucus, allergens and germs. The system kit has one nose cleaner for adults, 30 salt pods, one pair of standard nose pillows, and two pre-installed AA batteries to get you started. You can also order one at Walmart. If you are new to air purifiers, this LEVOIT Air Purifier for Home Allergies is a good place to start. The Amazon best-selling purifier can clean air to every corner of a room up to 1095 sq. ft. The three-stage filtration system can filter airborne particles like dust, pollen, pet dander, bacteria, viruses, and mold spores. You can also order the air purifier directly from LEVOIT. Original price: $189.99 This LEVOIT Air Purifier for large rooms can purify 1800 square feet in one hour. It has a washable pre-filter, air quality monitor and HEPA sleep mode. It also has a three-stage filter and is CARB-certified. For more deals, visit Original price: $349.99 This BLUEAIR Air Purifier can clean a 635 sq. ft room in about 12.5 minutes or a 1,524 sq. ft room in 30 minutes. It has a HEPA filter and is compatible with Amazon Alexa. Reviews note that it has an LED touch display and quiet operation. You can also order it straight from Blueair.
Yahoo
31-03-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Here's why school nurses need Texas law change to give new epi nasal spray to students
Children who have an allergy that could cause anaphylaxis symptoms such throat swelling and other severe reactions have long had to carry an epinephrine injectable pen with them or have one stored at school. Those pens, known under the brand name EpiPen, can become unusable if subjected to heat like in a hot car in a Texas summer. They also have a one-year shelf life, which means families have to fill a new prescription each school year for hundreds of dollars and then supply it to the school nurse's office. Last year, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Neffy, a nasal spray form of epinephrine for people who weigh 66 pounds or more, and this month it approved a lower dose spray for children ages 4 and older who are between 33 pounds and 66 pounds. This is great news, but families can't just hand over the nasal spray form to their school nurse. The Texas law allowing school nurses to give epinephrine uses the phrase "auto-injectors" when referring to delivering the drug to students who have a prescription for it. That means only the pen form. Senate Bill 1619 and House Bill 2283 both aim to rectify that by simply taking out the phrase "auto-injector" and changing it to "delivery devices." Allergy treatment takes girl from fear of cashews to no-worry birthday cake "This is a happy bill," said Dr. Allen Lieberman of Austin Family Allergy and Asthma. "There is no downside to it." This new nasal spray delivers medicine the same way as a nasal allergy spray like Flonase or the same way as Narcan for people experiencing an opioid overdose. You put the nozzle into one nostril and push down on the plunger to spray the medicine into the nose. It's easy to use, and people are less intimidated by it than by the idea of giving someone a shot. The nasal spray offers the same medical results as the auto-injectors, but it has some other advantages, Lieberman said. If you want to buy the nasal spray without insurance, a two-pack is about $200, Lieberman said, compared with $600 for one auto-injector. Neffy comes in a two-pack because if a first dose doesn't improve the symptoms, you can give a second dose. With the traditional pen, it's just one dose. The sprays also remain effective for two years instead of one, and they don't have heat restrictions like the injectables do. Lieberman is now prescribing the nasal sprays and getting it approved by insurance about 50% of the time, and "the more we write for it, the more insurance sees it, and will approve it," he said. He encourages people, especially in Texas, who have a prescription for an EpiPen to consider the Neffy instead. He has had many patients with auto-injectors accidentally leave them in a bag in the trunk of a car for days or weeks in the Texas heat and then have to throw the auto-injector away and get a new one. With the nasal spray, that spray would still be effective. It's going to be "a game-changer," Lieberman said. This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Texas law keeps school nurses from using new epi nasal spray
USA Today
21-03-2025
- Health
- USA Today
Allergic to cats or dogs but still want them as pets? Here's tips to help get relief.
Allergic to cats or dogs but still want them as pets? Here's tips to help get relief. Show Caption Hide Caption How to survive allergy season Spring is almost here and so is allergy season. Here are five surprising ways to survive spring allergies. Pet owners who suffer from allergies have a number of options to help relieve their symptoms, from grooming changes to medication. An allergic reaction to a dog or cat can cause sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy eyes, hives and other symptoms, according to the Mayo Clinic. The symptoms are the body's response to an allergen, such as pet dander. "When you inhale the allergen or come into contact with it, your immune system responds and produces an inflammatory response in your nasal passages or lungs," the clinic said. "Prolonged or regular exposure to the allergen can cause the ongoing (chronic) airway inflammation associated with asthma." Dr. Shaan Waqar said allergens come from a pet's saliva, dander and even urine. Waqar, an allergist at ENT and Allergy Associates in Plainview, New York, added there are ways for people to avoid a reaction. The Cleveland Clinic, an Ohio-based medical research and treatment facility, said about 30% of people in the nation have pet allergies. The clinic added it's twice as likely for a person to be allergic to a cat than a dog. Clean air in the home: Spring cleaning for clean breathing: How you can improve indoor air quality in your home Small changes may help relieve pet allergy symptoms Waqar notes that it's best to avoid bringing a pet home that will cause allergy problems. But existing pet owners may be able to make changes to their routine that can improve their allergy issues. If people are having allergy symptoms caused by a pet, Waqar suggested restricting where in the home the pet can be. That includes keeping the pet out of bedrooms to avoid prolonged, overnight exposure. If a person is petting a cat or dog, Waqar suggests thoroughly washing hands with soap and water. For the pet itself, he said regular grooming is needed. Around the home, he said a vacuum with a HEPA filter can help cut down on allergens. "They can help trap some of those very small particles that some of the other vacuum cleaners cannot, so that can be very helpful," he said. Medication can help treat pet allergies Over-the-counter and prescription medication can help, Waqar said. Those medications include oral antihistamines like Zyrtec and Claritin, and nasal sprays like Flonase, Nasal Court and Azelastine. He added people could experience side effects with the medications, the main one being drowsiness that he said accompanies oral antihistamines. Doctors could prescribe a combination of antihistamine and steroidal nasal spray if a person isn't getting relief from the other medicated options. Beyond that, he said allergy shots can decrease a person's sensitivity to an allergen. There are two phases to allergy shots: a build-up and maintenance. Waqar said the build-up phase typically requires weekly shots, then, under a doctor's direction, it converts to the maintenance phase, which would require monthly injections. Ah-choo: Tired of suffering during allergy season? These tips from an expert may offer relief "You're trying to maintain and hold that protection long-term for the patient, so that hopefully when they stop the allergy shots, the tolerance that they built will stay ‒ so that can be another really effective treatment," he said. Are there allergy-free cats and dogs? A truly allergy-free cat or dog does not exist, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. But there are some breeds known for being more tolerable for people with allergies. The American Kennel Club said less-allergenic purebred dogs do exist such as poodles, Yorkshire terriers, Bichon frise, Maltese and schnauzers. Contact reporter Krystal Nurse at knurse@ Follow her on X @KrystalRNurse, and on BlueSky @
