The first day of spring is coming up fast on March 20th. While some might be ready for the warmer weather, we may not be ready for what comes with it, seasonal allergies.
Often times juniper and elm trees are the first culprit of our spring allergies and cottonwood follows, but trees in general are always the first to aggravate our allergies in the Nevada area.
With the fluctuating weather sometimes it's hard to tell the difference between a seasonal cold and allergies.
Dr. Jeffery Nugent, MD , an Allergist and the President of Northern Nevada Allergy explains “Typically there can be some overlap of symptoms, so nasal symptoms can be congestion and drainage. Usually, a cold will have fever or muscle aches, or nausea and vomiting would be less common with allergic symptoms. Often if it’s multiple sites having symptoms at the same time itching is a cardinal symptom of allergies.”
And of course, if you are exposed to pollen then you're more likely to have symptoms of allergies.
Some residents say they have allergies more frequently.
John Alerbcht, a Reno Resident says “I deal with allergies pretty much year-round. Not just in the springtime but year-round.”
He tells us about some of his symptoms “Runny nose, sneeze, congestion and sometimes I lose my voice or my voice gets deeper.”
When we experience allergies sometimes it can be mild while other times can be severe.
But there are things you can do to help alleviate those symptoms.
Dr. Nugent says “Being well hydrated, which is a constant battle here in Nevada, is a good idea. Moisturizing the skin and moisturizing the eyes with natural tears or other lubricant eye drops, for your nose you can keep it moist by using Ponarus over the counter or olive oil to keep the membranes moist.”
But if over the counter medications are not a quick fix for you to combat your allergies, it may be time to check with a specialist.
“Obviously if you’re having symptoms, we have good therapies for that," said Dr. Nugent. "So treat them as needed so you can continue to enjoy being outside. It’s great to not have to stop what you love to do.”
Alerbcht tells us what his doctor provides for him “The doctor prescribes a nasal mist and a pill, and I also take an over-the-counter pill and then as things get better, I stop taking them.”
Dr. Nugent says you shouldn't let allergies keep you down this spring “So do what you love to do and then if you have issues that are beyond the over-the-counter medicine that is usually when you see your primary care doctor.”
As a reminder, it is recommended to have a primary care provider, but you don't necessarily need a referral to see an allergist. It usually depends on your insurance.
