Ohio State Health and Discovery released information on May 5 about how individuals can manage seasonal allergies at home and when it may be necessary to consult an allergist.
Seasonal allergies, especially in spring and fall, can cause symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to severe asthma attacks. The organization explains that allergies occur when the immune system reacts to substances like pollen, which is spread by trees, grasses, and weeds. For some people, this reaction leads to symptoms such as itchy or stuffy nose, sneezing, watery eyes, sore throat, congestion, earaches from nasal drainage, or eczema flare-ups.
The release notes that rising pollen counts due to climate change are causing more people to experience longer-lasting allergy symptoms. Spring remains the most active allergy season in central Ohio because of tree pollen.
To reduce allergy symptoms at home, Ohio State Health and Discovery recommends avoiding allergens by staying indoors during high pollen days and keeping windows closed. Showering after outdoor activities helps remove pollen from the body. Additional steps include using saline solutions or neti pots for nasal irrigation; regularly replacing HVAC air filters with HEPA filters; washing bedding weekly in hot water; maintaining indoor humidity below 50 percent; keeping pets out of bedrooms; washing animals twice a week; trying pet foods that reduce dander production; and wiping pets with a damp towel after outdoor exposure.
Over-the-counter medications such as loratadine (Claritin), cetirizine (Zyrtec), or fexofenadine (Allegra) are recommended over first-generation antihistamines like diphenhydramine (Benadryl), which can cause drowsiness and have been linked with higher risks of dementia according to studies cited in the release. Nasal sprays containing corticosteroids or antihistamines are also suggested for symptom relief.
Ohio State Health and Discovery addresses societal issues including health equity and substance use as part of its efforts toward inclusive well-being according to the official website. The academic medical center includes hospitals and outpatient facilities according to the official website, focusing on advancing health through research innovations, education initiatives, patient care improvements, and community involvement according to the official website. Its mission extends across Ohio and globally according to the official website, offering resources on wellness topics along with updates on research advances according to the official website while centering its work around health care delivery according to the official website.
As allergy seasons become more intense due to environmental changes affecting pollen levels nationwide, Ohio State Health & Discovery continues providing resources for individuals seeking effective strategies for symptom management.
