SEASONAL ALLERGY

If you're seriously interested in knowing about allergies, you need to think beyond the basics. This informative article takes a closer look at things you need to know about allergies.

Allergies do not decrease with age. With spring in full bloom many seniors are suffering from allergies caused by pollens from plants. While there are many drugs available that can alleviate the symptoms of allergies (runny nose and itchy eyes) seniors must be very careful when using these medications. If you are taking prescription drugs be sure to check the label for warnings about possible interactions. Before you use an over the counter medication read the label as some drugs are not recommended for use when certain health conditions are present. Be careful also with some of the older antihistamine medications - one frequent side effect is drowsiness and they can make you dizzy increasing the risk of falls.

Sneezing, a runny nose, congestion, and watery eyes can mean only one thing. It's allergy season. Allergies are caused when your immune system is triggered into action by things like pollen and mold, to which some people are sensitive. According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (AAAAI), 35 million people in the United States suffer from seasonal allergies.

Weather conditions affect the amount of pollen and mold spores in the air. Allergy symptoms are often minimal on rainy, cloudy, or windless days, while hot, dry, and windy weather can increase allergy symptoms.

Here's what you can do to reduce your allergy problems:

• Keep windows closed at night to prevent pollens and molds from drifting into your home. Instead, if needed, use air conditioning, which cleans, cools, and dries the air. 
• Try to stay indoors when the pollen count is high and on windy days when dust and pollen are blown about. 
• Don't mow lawns, rake leaves, or be around freshly cut grass. Mowing and raking stir up pollens and molds. Instead, have a friend or family member help with your yard-work. 

It seems like new information is discovered about something every day. And the topic of allergies is no exception. There's a lot to understand about allergies. We were able to provide you with some of the facts above, but there is still plenty more to write about in subsequent articles.