It's hard to believe this tiny bit of green that emerges in late April can flourish into the vegetation that cause us seasonal allergies.
As our beautiful Alaska spring turns to summer, many people sneeze and sniffle more than their normal. Pesky seasonal allergies can make enjoying our gorgeous outdoors difficult. Let's go over helpful information about recognizing allergic reactions, treating them, and minimizing seasonal allergies.
First, let's talk about how to know if you're having an allergic reaction. Mild to moderate symptoms include sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, watery or itchy eyes, and itchy throat. You might also notice skin issues like hives or a rash. These symptoms are uncomfortable, but usually not dangerous.
In Alaska, our main allergy triggers are different from the Lower 48. Birch, alder, and cottonwood trees release lots of pollen from May through July. Grass pollens peak in June and July. When plants do bloom, they often release pollen all at once, making symptoms worse for allergy sufferers.
To reduce your exposure to allergens, try to stay indoors on high pollen days, especially during mornings when pollen counts are highest. When you go outside, wearing sunglasses can help keep pollen out of your eyes. Coming back inside, changing clothes and washing your hands and face can remove the pollen you've picked up.
For treating allergies, over-the-counter medications can be very helpful. Antihistamines like Claritin, Zyrtec, or Allegra can relieve many symptoms. Nasal sprays like Flonase or Nasacort work well for nasal congestion. Remember to talk with your doctor before starting any new medicine, as some may interact with medications you already take or affect conditions like high blood pressure.
Natural remedies help some people. Using a nasal rinse can wash away allergens. Keeping your home clean by dusting and vacuuming regularly, and washing bedding in hot water, can reduce indoor allergens.
For more personalized help, consider seeing an allergist. This is really important if over-the-counter treatments aren't working. Many local health clinics throughout our state can provide guidance, but if you have a doctor, talk to them.
It's important to recognize when an allergic reaction becomes an emergency. Call 911 immediately if you or someone else experiences difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, face or mouth swelling, throat tightening, dizziness, or fainting, rapid or weak pulse, severe skin rash, or hives.
Don't wait to see if these symptoms improve on their own. These may be signs of a life-threatening allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention.
Remember, there's no need to suffer through allergy season. With proper precautions, treatments, and knowledge of when to seek emergency help, we can all enjoy Alaska's beautiful summers, even those of us with allergies.
Christian M. Hartley is a 40-year Alaska resident with over 25 years of public safety and public service experience. He is the City of Houston Fire Chief and serves on many local and state workgroups, boards and commissions re- lated to safety. He lives in Big Lake with his wife of 20 years and their three teenage sons
