By Dr. William Dolen, Allergist-Immunologist
MCG Health System

Every year, millions of Americans continue to live with seasonal allergy symptoms, despite the fact that relief is available for the drippy nose, sneezing, congestion and itchy, watery eyes caused by allergies to pollens and other sources. The following are the top five steps allergy sufferers should take in order to help relieve the onset of symptoms:

1. Anticipate. Seasonal allergies happen at predictable times. So know when you expect symptoms to begin, make sure you have current refills and start taking your medications early. Seasonal allergies are easier to treat when caught early, before they get severe.

2. Seek relief. Many people try to tough out the allergy season, leaving them miserable, decreasing their work productivity and affecting their general quality of life. Don't just put up with the symptoms. From medications to immunotherapy, relief is available.

3. Limit side effects. Some medications may cause side effects such as sleepiness. If these side effects are intruding in your daily life, know that you don't have to put up with them. If you're having trouble, tell your doctor, who can find other treatments that have fewer side effects.

4. Don't just self-treat. If you're self-treating with over-the-counter medications but not getting enough relief, see your doctor. With the proper medication, seasonal allergies can be kept under control.

5. Seek professional advice. Ask your doctor whether you should consult with a board-certified, trained allergist-immunologist. A specialist can help you find out exactly what you are allergic to (which will help predict when you might have trouble), and can work with your regular doctor to find a personalized medication strategy. Allergy shots are still the best hope for long-term relief of seasonal allergies.

Allergy season usually lasts through October. And while there is no cure for seasonal allergies, by working with a medical professional to find the right medications and by staying on a medication regimen, it is possible to help prevent the misery of the allergy season.

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