Dr. Songhui Ma of Empire Allergy serving Greater New York City specializes in seasonal allergies and hay fever. Seasonal allergies are among the most common allergic conditions in the United States and affect over 35 million people.
Symptoms
People with seasonal allergies have problems with stuffy nose, runny nose and sneeze. They can get itchy eyes, ears and/or throat. They often feel like they have a cold but colds usually get better within a couple of days. Allergies continue until the allergy season ends or the allergic trigger can be avoided. In addition, allergies can cause problems with mood, tiredness, concentration and sleep as well as asthma, sinus or ear problems.
Many people with seasonal allergies also have problems with certain fresh fruits and vegetables. This is called oral allergy syndrome the most common symptom is itchiness and mild swelling around the mouth. Oral allergy syndrome occurs because some foods and pollens have similar proteins and the immune system has trouble telling them apart. Common foods that causes oral allergy syndrome include apples, bananas, peaches, cherries, carrots, melons, almonds and many others.
What causes it?
Seasonal allergies are caused by different pollens. Pollen is the tiny male cells necessary to fertilize flowering plants. Pollens that cause allergies are those that are light and can be blown around by the wind. Pollens from large showy flowers such as roses are spread from plant to plant by bees, other insects and birds and generally do not cause allergic problems. In the Northeast, the spring allergy season starts in March and continues through the end of June and the fall allergy season starts in late August and continues through most of the fall. Pollens that cause allergies include different trees in the spring, grasses in the early summer and ragweed in the fall.
Tips to prevent allergy symptoms include:
- Watch the pollen counts and stay indoors when the counts are very high. Pollen counts are higher during dry, windy days and lower during rainy or humid days. Pollen counts are available on the bottom right corner of my home page.
- If possible, keep windows closed and use an air conditioner to filter the air and ventilate your home or car.
- Wear an allergy mask if you need to mow the lawn or garden.
- After spending time outdoors, change your clothes and wash your face. Shower and wash your hair at night before going to bed.
When to See Dr. Ma:
If your allergies are making you miserable or you are having asthma, difficulty breathing or sinus problems, you should see Dr. Ma. You can find out exactly what is causing your problems and come up with an individualized plan to get better. There are different medications such as antihistamines, nasal sprays and eye drops. You may even be able to cure your allergies with immunotherapy, otherwise known as allergy shots.
