By MICHAEL BOYLAN
Staff Writer

Allergy season is among us. The wonderful season where pollen gets everywhere and people sneeze, wheeze and sniffle for, seemingly, weeks at a time. It is the season of allergic rhinitis. Allergic rhinitis, more commonly known as hay fever, is an allergic reaction to inhalants, such as pollen. Hay fever can develop at any age, but symptoms will usually appear before a person is 20 years old. Hay Fever depends on exposure, so one must be exposed to a particular type of pollen for several seasons before an allergy is developed.

Luckily, hay fever is more annoying than dangerous. The symptoms of allergic rhinitis irritate over 20 million Americans each year. The symptoms can be alleviated however, most of the time with over the counter medicines. Antihistamines, decongestants and nasal cortiosteroids can be used to target specific symptoms of hay fever. If these medications fail, many people can benefit from allergy shots. The Fayette County Health Department is not offering allergy shots this year, but one should consult with their physician about where to get this done and if it is necessary.

Preventative measures can also be taken during the allergy season. First, if you are bothered by high pollen counts, the medicine, prescription or otherwise, should be taken an hour before you will be exposed. If you are allergic to grass pollen, either do not mow the grass or wear a mask when you do. If you wear contact lenses, wear them less during allergy season and wear your glasses instead.

“Complaints about eye irritations increase dramatically when pollen season arrives,” says Dr. Jody Whisenant, president of the Georgia Optometric Association. “Pollen causes the tissues on and around the eye to swell and cause the release of substances called histamines in the eye, which makes them itch.”

It is important to try not to itch. Reduce swelling and itching of the eyes by applying cold compresses. If you insist on wearing contact lenses, clean them daily and disinfect the lens. If these or any other symptoms persist, consult your physician. Though many people find this to be unbearable time of the year, with the right knowledge you can be in the clear.

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