Chicago Doctor Discusses Tried and True Treatments
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(HealthNewsDigest.com) – It may be cold now but for many of us, allergy season will soon be upon us! The symptoms are all too familiar: watery eyes, runny nose, itchy skin, pressure-filled headaches… the list can seem endless when suffering from seasonal discomfort. To stop sneezing in its tracks, there are a variety of remedies that can alleviate your allergy symptoms and treat the condition all together.
Dr. Jordan Pritikin, a board-certified otolaryngologist based in Chicago, explains that allergies affect more than 60 million people throughout the U.S., and can have a serious impact on overall health. “Over-the-counter medication or prescription pills may help symptoms temporarily while alternative treatments can help pinpoint the root of the problem,” adds Dr. Pritikin.
Below are six tips to consider just in time for allergy season:
– Close Windows & Doors: While catching some fresh air can do the body good, most allergens such as mold and pollen are airborne. By keeping doors and windows closed, excess allergens will be trapped in the air conditioner’s air filters, leaving cleaner air. Just be sure to replace the filters every so often!
– Over-the-Counter Antihistamines: A quick fix for red, itchy eyes or a stuffed nose, antihistamines are easily available over-the-counter at most drugstores and can provide temporarily relief from allergy symptoms by reducing inflammation. Brands to look for include Zyrtec, Claratin or Benadryl.
– Allergy Drops: Formally known as sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT), allergy drops help create a tolerance to allergens by putting drops of allergen extracts under the tongue, for a safer and more convenient alternative to allergy shots. Allergy drops can be administered either once per day or several times per week over a period of several years.
– Shower After the Outdoors: Between April showers and May flowers, there are plenty of allergens that can cling to hair and clothing even after you are back inside. Washing hands frequently and avoiding contact with the eyes or nose can also reduce the likeliness of triggering symptoms.
– Steroid Nasal Sprays: One of the simplest methods for treating hay fever, nasal sprays help decrease inflammation within the nasal passages and treat symptoms such as sneezing or congestion. These prescription sprays can be utilized on an “as-needed” basis, allowing the sufferer to dictate how often the spray is used.
– Allergy Shots: Allergy shots help your body become accustomed to allergens and may even pinpoint the trigger for allergic reactions. While they don’t cure allergies, they improve symptoms gradually and cut the number of allergic reactions as a whole. Often referred to as “immunotherapy,” allergy shots should be considered if symptoms occur more than three months of the year
About Dr. Jordan Pritikin
Dr. Jordan Pritikin is a board-certified otolaryngologist at Chicago Nasal & Sinus Center, a private medical practice devoted to the diagnosis and treatment of nasal and sinus disorders. Dr. Pritikin is a Fellow of the American Academy of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery and attendedRush Medical College in Chicago, where he was selected to the Alpha Omega Alpha Honors Medical Society. Over the years, Dr. Pritikin has cultivated an interest in Rhinology, focusing his practice on diseases of the nose and sinuses, and has participated in clinical research exploring innovative therapies for chronic sinusitis. He has lectured at local and national meetings, developed informational and training videos demonstrating surgical techniques for the nose and sinuses, and has helped develop and refine instruments designed for sinus surgery. Dr. Pritikin and the Chicago Nasal & Sinus Center offer patients an unparalleled level of service, utilizing state-of-the art technology and innovative treatments while maintaining a thoughtful and caring approach. For more information visit http://www.
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