FAST- Food Allergy Support Team: Articles & Tips
In the northeastern United States, tree and grass pollen season occurs in the spring.
Ragweed and other weeds pollinate in the mid-to-late summer.
Secondary infections – sinusitis, conjunctivitis from eye rubbing
Asthma – serious complication for allergy sufferers. Symptoms include:
Many people have itching or swelling of their mouth and throat with certain fruits such as apple, peach, pear, banana, melons, plums. Known as the oral allergy syndrome, this is a cross-reactivity between pollen and food proteins. Although quite distressing, it almost never results in a life-threatening reaction as can nuts or shellfish.
Start medications early and take them daily. Avoid sedating antihistamines, such as Benadryl. Safe medications available over the counter:
Prescription medications: Intranasal steroids are the most effective medications available for allergic rhinitis
Other medications:
Don’t forget eye drops if you have significant eye allergy symptoms. Many people will need a combination of medications to stay comfortable in the spring.
Consider allergy shots if you have 2 severe years in a row that are not adequately treated with medication.