Well it's that time of year when seasonal allergies are upon us. Yes, the tree pollens (oak, cedar, and cypress) have already started releasing in Tampa, Florida even before Christmas 2008! That's due to the fact that we have not had a true winter here, with persistant warm temperatures and humidity. If you have had a "lingering" cold for the past 2-3 months, most likely you are experiencing seasonal allergies, otherwise known as spring hay fever. Some of these symptoms may include itchy, watery eyes; runny and/or stuffy nose; sneezing; post-nasal drip; cough; and even chest tightness.
So what can you do other than to avoid being outdoors, which of course is one of the benefits of living in sunny, South Florida! Well there are a variety of medications available, including eye drops, pills and nasal sprays. One of the newest, prescriptive nasal sprays, called Veramyst, can treat most of these symptoms in as little as 24 hours.
Veramyst is indicated for anyone above the age of 2 years for seasonal allergies. Effectiveness, of course, is dependent on frequency of use. Below the age of 12 years, the number of sprays per nostril is one, and is not shown to be effective for the eye symptoms. Above 12 years the dosage is 2 sprays per nostril initially, lowered to 1 spray per nostril after symptoms improve. Effectiveness with eye itching and watering has been shown in this age group.
As with all medications there are always possible side effects. Potential for nose bleeds, fungal sinus infections, glaucoma, and cataracts exist. Therefore one should never use any medication indefinitely and should have evaluations by their allergist or primary care doctor often. It is important to note that medications only treat the symptoms of allergies, not the underlying cause. If you are dependent on daily medications in order to have an improved quality of life, then diagnosing the allergies and beginning a process of desensitization may be more beneficial.
So what can you do other than to avoid being outdoors, which of course is one of the benefits of living in sunny, South Florida! Well there are a variety of medications available, including eye drops, pills and nasal sprays. One of the newest, prescriptive nasal sprays, called Veramyst, can treat most of these symptoms in as little as 24 hours.
Veramyst is indicated for anyone above the age of 2 years for seasonal allergies. Effectiveness, of course, is dependent on frequency of use. Below the age of 12 years, the number of sprays per nostril is one, and is not shown to be effective for the eye symptoms. Above 12 years the dosage is 2 sprays per nostril initially, lowered to 1 spray per nostril after symptoms improve. Effectiveness with eye itching and watering has been shown in this age group.
As with all medications there are always possible side effects. Potential for nose bleeds, fungal sinus infections, glaucoma, and cataracts exist. Therefore one should never use any medication indefinitely and should have evaluations by their allergist or primary care doctor often. It is important to note that medications only treat the symptoms of allergies, not the underlying cause. If you are dependent on daily medications in order to have an improved quality of life, then diagnosing the allergies and beginning a process of desensitization may be more beneficial.
Rebecca Levy, MSN, ARNP
