Spring into Action to Combat Seasonal Allergies

KTRE-TV (Lufkin, TX) ^ | Staff

[KarinG1]

After the long, dark cold of winter, many people look to spring to bring them bright sunshine, warmer weather - and non-stop sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. According to the American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI), seasonal allergic rhinitis, also known as "spring allergies" or "rose fever," is one of the most common allergic conditions in the United States, affecting approximately 36 million people (www.aaaai.org).

[KarinG1]

I live in the Pineywoods of East Texas and the pollen is making my life miserable. I'm taking the red pills and the yellow pills during daylight hours along with lots of nasal spray and the pink and white capsules at bedtime but I'm not getting much relief. I tried local honey but that didn't help. Does anybody know of any over the counter remedy that might help? I hate going to doctors but I'm on the verge.

[zeaal]

I sympathize with you. I finally broke down and get a prescription for Zyrtec. It seems to be helpful. At least my eyes are not tearing all the time making it hard to see to drive.

[TC Rider]

Best OTC in my opinion is Claritin. Also try the saline nasal douches, like Simply Saline.

Personally, I went to the doctor and take Singulair and Rhinocort, along with the saline. There's still something out there that's making my eyes itch though.

[theophilusscribe]

Ocean and the generic Target equivalent are good too . . .

[Diago]

bump

[The King of Elflands Daughter]

My husband's seasonal allergies have been greatly helped with use of the neti pot and salt water which washes the pollen away. And liberal use of Nasalcrom, which is a nasal spray, but not a decongestant. These have greatly reduced his consumption of OTC decongestants and antihistamines.

---tkoed