‘Tis the sneezing season | SIU Healthy Dose

Written by Rebecca Budde, SIU School of Medicine

Itchy nose, watery eyes and scratchy throat? Seasonal allergies don’t just hit in the fall and spring.
woman-with-a-cold-or-allergy

If you’re suffering from sneezing, a runny nose and congestion right now, it may not be a summer cold; you could have seasonal allergies. Although allergens are present year round, allergy sufferers may find the summer just as troublesome as the spring and fall.

According to Dr. Richard Bass, an SIU ear, nose and throat doctor, approximately 35% of the US population has some form of allergic rhinitis, aka allergies.

Though no cure, physicians can help those who suffer from allergies manage their symptoms. Dr. Bass says that some medications, including antihistamines and nasal sprays, can help. Nasal sprays can be pure steroids, pure antihistamine or a combination steroid/antihistamine. For individuals whose allergies are not improved by basic treatment options, Dr. Bass says shots are available.

Anyone suffering from allergies should see their primary care physician, who may refer them to an allergist for further evaluation and possible treatment. If you do not have a primary care physician, call SIU’s Center for Family and Community Medicine at 217-545-8000 to schedule an appointment.