When Allergies Attack

Posted Monday, September 20, 2010

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Reaching for the tissues, rubbing your eyes and generally feeling miserable with allergies? You aren't alone; more Americans than usual are suffering this ragweed season and the discomfort is more pronounced. Then, just as it's about to subside, fall brings mold and fungus. Come winter, dust and other indoor allergens lurk. How to fight back when allergies attack, Monday on the Sound of Ideas. `

Guests

Dr. Akhil Chouksey, Allergy/Immunology, MetroHealth Medical Center
Dr. Haig Tcheurekdjian, M.D., Allergy/Immunology Associates
Mike Tringale, VP External Affairs, Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America

Additional Information

Check out ideastream's Attacking Allergies coverage including the WVIZ/PBS television special.

Please follow our community discussion rules when composing your comments.

Suzanne 9:31 AM 9/20/10

I developed allergies about 13 years ago and was diagnosed with allergies to pollen, ragweed, dander etc. Since then I seem to be on a constant regime of antihistamines (Zyrtec), nasal sprays (Flonase) and decongestants (Sudafed).
I’m concerned about having to take medication on a daily basis, yet if I skip a few doses of either medication I suffer from sneezing, nasal congestion or extreme headaches when I laugh or bend down.
What are the dangers on being on these medications for extended periods of time?

Irene Meyerhoefer 9:52 AM 9/20/10

My children were patients of Dr. Chouksy and started on immunology therapy at ages 4 and 6 and continued for almost 4 years. It is so frustrating that even though they were on shots (that they would scream and cry through) they still had to continue on all sorts of allergy medications(during the immunology therapy). The only benefit the shots appear to have had is that the asthmatic reactions they had previously they seem to have outgrown while they were on the shot therapy. They continue to be on allergy medications for seasonal pollens now. It is very frustrating that after almost 4 years of shots (and 3 allergist -since Dr. Chouksey left the practice they were attending- so the lack of follow through by the physician that recommended the immunology therapy) we still have to figure out what will relieve their allergy symptoms.

Pam Peters 9:53 AM 9/20/10

I have allergies and have gone the alternative medicine route. I take eyebright nettle (liquid) twice a day and I am clear and don’t sneeze anymore. I could not take antihistamines because if you even shook a bottle in front of me I would fall asleep.
Also the reason insurance companies are asking people to go to the over the counter first is what my MD told me a long time ago. So many meds are now over the counter that work and are less expensive.
Also the water pic idea was told to me by my allergist over 20 years ago to keep my sinuses moist.
I also take an under the tongue drops to desensitize me to the NE Ohio allergens.
I am allergic to dogs but now have 3 standard poodles and an Airedoodle and am fine.
I do keep my bedroom clear of dust mites the best I can also.

Toni 9:53 AM 9/20/10

After listening to all these allergies, I feel lucky that I don’t have ANY. So, I have to believe I was brought up in an environment where I was exposed to many different things. I would tend to agree that exposing children to an unsterile environment. I think parents go too far in keeping a almost “too clean” environment.

Or, do you think I will eventually get some allergies later in life?

Thanks.