The first warm days, the first runny nose, the first blooming buds, the first red eyes. If springtime means sneeze time for you, review this article for some healthy suggestions.

Up to 30% of all Americans have some difficulty with allergies. This time of year is particularly bad because of the blooming trees and grasses. In the southwest, juniper is a primary source of pollen in the late winter and early spring.

Many people are unsure of whether their symptoms are the cause of a cold or an allergic reaction. The basic difference is the presence or absence of fever. In allergic rhinitis (also known as hay fever), there is no fever. Fever indicates some sort of infection. Hay fever typically causes symptoms that are limited to the nose, throat, eyes and perhaps ears. In contrast, a cold or the flu makes a person feel bad all over, such as achy muscles and joints, and even difficulty moving about. Also, cold symptoms usually appear one at a time, first sneezing, then runny nose, then congestion (stuffiness), for allergies symptoms usually occur all at once. Symptoms usually last for 7 to 10 days during a cold, allergy symptoms will occur as long as allergens are present. Mucous discharge in a cold is often yellow and thick; in allergies it is clear, thin and watery. Sneezing is more common with allergies, especially when it is 2 or 3 times in a row. Allergies can involve the eyes, causing watering and itching. Eyes may become red and swollen. Spring allergies can trigger asthma symptoms.

As we start to get warm days in New Mexico, the spring season often represents spring cleaning. This means opening windows in the house and hanging sheets and clothes outside. The major problem with this for allergic patients is that pollens can attach themselves very nicely to clothes and sheets and get inside the house through open windows.

Spring also means major dusting activities. Heavy cleaning and dusting can stir airborne amounts of dust mites, mold spores, and animal dander, resulting in worsening of symptoms.

Antihistamines are the first line of allergy treatment. Antihistamines are available both over-the-counter and by prescription. Decongestants are often combined with anti-histamines to relieve congestion. A variety of nasal sprays are also useful for preventing allergy symptoms if used regularly and started at the first sign of symptoms. Corticosteroid nasal sprays available by prescription are also effective for preventing allergy symptoms. Consult with your pharmacist for treatment options that may be specific to your individual needs.

In summary, control your allergen exposure as much a possible. Wear an allergy mask when cleaning and gardening. Saline nasal spray works to wash out pollen and reduce or thin mucous. Taking your medications regularly will translate into much better control of your symptoms this season and next.

This week's column was written by Raul Garcia, a 2009 Pharm D. Candidate

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