How can I prevent spring allergies?
Q. Last spring my allergies were worse than ever. There is still snow on the ground at my house. Is it too early to start medicine to help prevent what happened last year?
A. Kudos for thinking in advance. Even though you still have snow on the ground, spring will come quickly. And so will the pollen from grass and trees.
Inhaling these pollens can trigger a reaction of the immune system. It's known as hay fever. Symptoms vary. But they commonly include a congested, runny nose, sneezing, and itchy, watery eyes.
So, get started on medicines now. I suggest you start both an oral antihistamine and a corticosteroid nasal spray.
Antihistamines counteract a protein called histamine. It is released by tissue cells deep inside the skin during an allergic reaction. Good ones are available without prescription. The oldest versions like chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton) and diphenhydramine (Benadryl) cause drowsiness in most people. So, I usually recommend one of the newer, less sedating antihistamines such as fexofenadine (Allegra) or loratadine (Claritin). Certirizine (Zyrtec) is another one. Consider generic versions of these drugs to save money.
Corticosteroid nasal sprays are steroids similar to hormones your adrenal glands produce. They reduce inflammation and help reduce nasal congestion, runny nose, and nasal itching. Triamcinolone acetonide (Nasacort) and fluticasone propionate (Flonase) are available over the counter. Others are available by prescription.
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About the Author
Howard E. LeWine, MD, Chief Medical Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing
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