Fall Allergies Alert

Don’t let autumn allergies slow you and your kids down

Hay fever is more than a nuisance. According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI), hay fever is the leading cause of missed work days from chronic illness and leads to more than 2 million missed school days among children.

Seasonal allergic rhinitis (also called “hay fever”) is caused by the body’s over-reaction to pollen or mold. In the late summer and early fall, weed pollens abound—especially ragweed. Throughout the Midwest, ragweed is plentiful in empty lots, fields and along roadsides. Pollens are tiny powdery grains that are carried by the wind or insects and because they’re so lightweight, pollen grains can travel as far as 400 miles. Mold spores also are tiny and can float through the air. Mold can be found year-round, both inside and out.

These tiny grains and spores can cause big aggravation for children and adults: sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, congestion and a runny nose. Some people with hay fever also feel sluggish, have trouble sleeping or have difficulty concentrating at school or work.

“Being prepared and taking appropriate precautions can help prevent allergies from getting the best of you,” says Stacie McMurtry, MD, a pediatric allergist affiliated with Lake Forest Hospital.

Dr. McMurtry, who trained at Children’s Memorial Hospital and now practices in Libertyville and Gurnee, offers these tips for children with fall seasonal allergies.

• Stay indoors when pollen counts are high. “Pollen counts usually peak in the morning, so try to avoid a lot of time outside until after lunchtime,” says Dr. McMurtry. She notes that pollen levels can vary by day and area.
• Keep in mind that allergy symptoms tend to be worse on hot, windy days. Rain and cool morning temperatures can slow the release of pollen.
• If you’ve been outdoors, shower or wash when you’re back inside. Cleansing can help wash away pollen that collects on skin and hair.
• Fresh air doesn’t help. Keep windows closed at home and in your car to help keep out the pollen. Use air conditioning, which cools and dries the air.
• Check the daily pollen counts online from the National Allergy Bureau through the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology website: www.aaaai.org or on www.pollen.com.
  

“Medical treatment for fall allergies includes medications, such as antihistamines, decongestants, prescription nasal sprays and eye drops, which tend to be very effective,” says Dr. McMurtry. “For persistent or severe symptoms, immunotherapy (allergy shots) helps to desensitize or decrease the body’s response to pollens in appropriately selected patients. Parents or older patients should talk with the doctor to develop a plan to prevent or control symptoms.”

Asthma Alert for People with Allergies
Fall allergies also can trigger asthma. In children, the most common type of asthma is allergic asthma. When children with allergic asthma are exposed to certain allergens, their asthma symptoms may worsen. According to Dr. McMurtry, “Following the tips above and having appropriate maintenance and rescue medications can help manage allergic asthma and prevent severe flares in children and adults.”