Did you know that more than 24 million Americans — and 6 million children — suffer from seasonal allergies?

ENT and Allergy Associates, the nation’s pre-eminent otolaryngology specialty and sub-specialty practice, offers essential tips for residents to better manage allergies as we near the peak of allergy season.

Allergic rhinitis, or more commonly known as allergies, is an inflammatory disease which develops when your immune system becomes sensitized and overreacts to something in the environment. The most common seasonal allergies stem from tree pollen, which is most prevalent in spring, summer and fall.

There are two types of allergies: seasonal and perennial. People with seasonal allergies are typically affected by allergen prevalent throughout the various seasons, namely spring, summer and fall. These allergens can be from mold spores or pollen from trees, grass or weeds.

Conversely, those with perennial allergy symptoms face year-round afflictions most commonly related to dust mites or pet dander. Allergy symptoms typically include itchy nose, itchy eyes and throat, sneezing, runny or stuffy nose or feeling tired due to poor sleep.

“At ENT and Allergy Associates, we are constantly working to innovate our treatment practices to accommodate the needs of our patients,” said Dr. Robert Marchlewski, an allergist and asthma specialist at ENT and Allergy Associates in Garden City. “While many of us know about allergy symptoms, we may not correlate the constant fatigue felt throughout the day with them directly. When allergies are severe enough, it can negatively impact your quality of life. We suggest that individuals consult their allergist to get a better idea of their own allergies and find the best path forward in treating them.”

Allergy testing is one of the most certifiable means in which to identify potential allergies. Through skin-prick testing or blood examinations, physicians can more accurately predict allergic reactions. Correctly identifying allergy triggers is a key component of effective management.

Treatment options for allergies can vary based on the person, but the most common and accessible treatment options are environmental control, medications, and immunotherapy. For the upcoming pollen allergy season, there are few steps you can take which can help you reduce your allergy symptoms.

• Try staying indoors when possible, especially when pollen counts are high or at their peak.
• Keep windows of your home, workplace and car closed during peak pollen seasons.
• Use air conditioning whenever possible.
• Wash your hands and face to remove pollen.
• Shower and shampoo your hair at bedtime to wash off accumulated pollens.
• Wear glasses or sunglasses when outdoor to minimize pollen getting into your eyes.
• Wash bedding once a week using hot water.

For persistent symptoms, many allergy sufferers pursue the use of medications — either prescribed or over-the-counter — to ease the harsh allergy side effects. Intranasal steroid and antihistamines are commonly used for this purpose.

For those who want to avoid chronic/long term medication dependence, immunotherapy may be recommended. There are two types of immunotherapy: allergy shots and sublingual tablets (under-the–tongue).
To learn more about ENTA, find a local office or book an appointment, download the “ENT and Allergy Associates” mobile app, visit www.entandallergy.com or call 1-855-ENTA-DOC.