• Inflammatory reaction affecting the nose and sinus lining to allergens
• Symptoms may include nasal congestion, sneezing, redness and swelling of the nose and eyes, itching of the eyes, nose and ear canals, and other allergy symptoms
• Often associated with other conditions such as sinus infections and asthma
• Caused by exposure to an allergen in the air
• Cannot be spread from person to person
• Affects males and females
• Can occur at any age but usually most severe in children, adolescents and young adults
• May be mild to severe
• May affect quality of life
• Not life threatening

GENERAL THERAPY

• Avoid or reduce contact with allergens
• Vacuum and dust regularly
• Maintain low humidity
• Close windows at night
• Stay inside when pollen count is high

MEDICATIONS

Allergy medicines:

• Corticosteroids
• Antihistamines
• Decongestants
• Nasal saline
• Eye drops

ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE

Herbal:

• Butterbur
• Cat’s claw
• Choline
• Goldenseal
• Stinging nettle
• Belladonna
• Bromelain

PRECAUTIONS AND AVOIDANCES

• Avoid known triggers
• Keep a symptom diary
• If you have severe allergic reactions, wear a medical alert bracelet or necklace
• Dust regularly
• Wash bed linens and stuffed toys in hot water
• Restrict pets to certain areas
• Control molds; clean showers and tubs regularly
• Have hardwood flooring instead of carpet
• Limit outdoor activity and wear mask if damp weather
• Avoid starting allergy shots if you’re pregnant

SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION IF:

• Allergies are making work or school more difficult
• You are Pregnant
• You have pain in sinus area, fever, discharge from nose, or ear pain
• Symptoms appear to get worse
• Home treatment does not help
• A cough or cold lasting more than 2 weeks
• Severe itching of eyes or nose
• Side effects to over the counter medicines