The Doctor Is In... Breathe Easier This Fall Dr. Joseph Kelly Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Clinical and Program Policy and Acting Chief Medical Officer, TRICARE Management Activity

Nasal allergies are divided into two types: seasonal and perennial. People with seasonal allergies suffer during certain seasons, usually when specific plants are blooming, while people with perennial allergies suffer year-round.

Those with seasonal allergic rhinitis, commonly known as hay fever, have nasal symptoms associated with pollens from grass, weeds and trees. In the fall, weeds are the primary cause of seasonal allergies.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), hay fever is the most common of the allergic diseases and results in more than 14 million doctor visits each year.

Seasonal allergies also can trigger or induce asthma. In fact, about 60 percent of Americans suffer from allergy-induced asthma.

Perennial allergic rhinitis can also be caused by pollen, but it is usually caused by indoor allergens, such as dust mites, pet dander or molds.
      

Normally, over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamine medications are effective in alleviating allergy discomfort. However, when considering OTC medications, you may want to consult with your primary care manager (PCM) first. Many prescription medications are more effective in stopping the body from initiating its allergic responses. In extreme cases, allergy desensitization injections or immunotherapy may be recommended to help strengthen the body’s tolerance for certain allergens.

The best way to avoid allergic reactions is to remove or minimize the allergens that provoke your symptoms. For more information about allergies, visit the MedlinePlus Web site and the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI) Web site.