Allergy Season is Knocking at Your Door, and We’re Here to Help! 

Written By: Robyn Kreiner, MD, FAAP,FAAAAI, FACAAI , Strauss Allergy & Asthma – Westbury , Strauss Allergy & Asthma – Commack

Sara Sussman headshot

Written By: Sara Sussman, MD , Strauss Allergy & Asthma – Westbury , Strauss Allergy & Asthma – Commack

Raphael Strauss headshot

Written By: Raphael Strauss, MD, F.A.A.P., F.A.A.A.A.I , Strauss Allergy & Asthma – Westbury , Strauss Allergy & Asthma – Commack

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Spring has finally arrived! Unfortunately, with flowers in full bloom and warmer weather ahead comes pollen and other spring allergens! It’s important to get ahead of spring allergy symptoms and have a plan to make you and your family as comfortable as possible during the upcoming season. Symptoms of allergies and respiratory infections overlap. If fever is present or symptoms do not respond to medication, consult your doctor. 

OVER-THE-COUNTER PRODUCTS- 

What To Buy: 

  1. Nasal steroid sprays: Flonase, Sensimist (fluticasone), Nasacort(triamcinolone), Nasonex(mometasone), and Rhinocort (budesonide), are most effective when used daily.  
  1. Antihistamines- get the type that does not cause drowsiness: Allegra(fexofenadine), Claritin(loratadine), Xyzal(levocetirizine), and Zyrtec (cetirizine).  
  1. Antihistamine nasal sprays: Astelin(Azelastine),Patanase (olopatadine). 
  1. Eye drops: over-the-counter allergy eye drops contain the medication ketotifen (Zaditor, Alaway) and artificial tears are helpful. DON’T RUB YOUR EYES 
  1. For allergy medications, generic products are cheaper and just as effective. Be sure to shop for the best prices (Check GoodRx for local pharmacies and Costplus Drug company online). There is no evidence that one product WITHIN any of the above categories is superior to another so personal preference should guide your choice. Nasal sprays are superior to oral medications in clinical studies. Eye drops are most effective for eye itching. 

What Not To Buy: 

· Allergy medications that can cause drowsiness such as Benadryl 

· Decongestants: tend to cause adverse effects such as insomnia, elevated blood pressure 

· Avoid topical decongestants such as Afrin, Naphcon, and Visine. Long-term use can cause increased congestion and red eyes 

Although it is nearly impossible to avoid all pollen, here are some tips to limit your exposure: 

· First, keep the doors and windows in your home and cars shut to keep the pollen out. 

· Take a shower and wash your hair after outdoor activities so you don’t bring pollen inside with you. 

· Use of a Netipot or saline to flush the nose and sinuses out can be helpful. Be sure to use sterile water, not just tap or well water to avoid infection. 

· Wipe off pets when they come indoors and don’t let them sleep in your bed with you and transfer pollen. 

If these do not make you comfortable, see your doctor to discuss other options. There is no need to be uncomfortable when we are here to help! 

Allied Physicians Group is a partnership of more than 150 dedicated, caring physicians and 350 highly trained support staff. Allied serves over 180,000 patients with offices throughout Greater New York City, Long Island, the Hudson Valley, and beyond. Founded in 2006, Allied Physicians Group is a recognized leader in increasing healthcare efficiencies and patient satisfaction, emphasizing support, innovation, and collaboration. If you are looking for a Pediatrician near you click here, or for more information, please visit https://alliedphysiciansgroup.com/.

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