As the weather warms for springtime, the plants, trees and grass start to grow and get greener. What also warms up for many people in Dallas, Houston or anywhere in Texas is the start of allergy season. For many allergy sufferers, officially designated as allergic rhinitis, springtime isn't always something to look forward to. Flowers bloom, grass and weeds rise from their dormancy, and, unfortunately, allergy season kicks into high gear. Millions of people just like you know the symptoms:



o Itchy, watery eyes

o Runny nose

o Sinus pressure

o Sneezing

o Headaches

What causes allergies?

The bad guys that cause many allergies are allergens such as ragweed, pollen, and grass. There are many people whose allergies are non-seasonal - pets, dust, and certain foods as the culprits. One of the most common seasonal allergies is hay fever.

What's my age got to do with it?

Allergies can make themselves known at any age. If you've made it through your 20s, 30s, or 40s, allergy free, you may think you're in the clear. However, just as kids can outgrow their allergies, adults can develop allergies later in life.

How do I get rid of my allergies?

If you suffer from allergies, or suspect that your annual springtime cold or sinus problems are actually an allergy, talk to your doctor. He or she can analyze your symptoms and work with you to find the best way to relieve your symptoms.

In addition to medication, you can take a look at the following to limit your exposure to the allergens:

Pollen counts soar in the early morning and evening hours, so plan your outings accordingly.

Keep pollen from getting indoors. Close your windows and turn on the air conditioning. Also invest in high-end, anti-allergen filters for your furnace.

Avoid exposure to freshly mowed grass - find someone else to mow the lawn.

Pollen clings to hair and clothing. Try not to bring it with you when you go indoors. Shower and change your clothes if you've been outside for any lengthy period of time.

What kind of medications can bring relief?

Doctors often prescribe antihistamines and decongestants to treat allergies, which help clear up the runny nose and itchy, watery eyes. Although antihistamines have been known to cause drowsiness, there are other prescription medications available that can make you feel better without making you feel like it's nap time.

There is a new class of medications, called leukotriene blockers that are bringing relief to allergy sufferers of all ages. One of these medications, Singulair, is a once-a-day treatment approved for the treatment of allergic rhinitis in adults, teens and children as young as six. This works differently from antihistamines (such as Claritin, Allegra, and Zyrtec), which block histamine receptors. Singulair works by blocking leukotrienes, a different inflammatory mediator.

In addition to this new generation of pharmaceuticals, nasal steroid sprays are also being modified into a more patient- and environmentally-friendly form. While most prescription nasal steroids are saline-based pump sprays, a new delivery offering an aerosol-type spray will soon be available. The old versions of these sprays used fluorocarbons, which are environmentally unfriendly. The new versions don't use fluorocarbons.

Can I get tested for allergies?

Even if you've had a history of classic allergy symptoms, you should have your sensitivities measured. In addition to skin testing, which has been in use for 100-plus years, allergies are also being assessed through blood testing. Typically, your blood-serum sample is sent to an outside lab and measured for antibodies to common allergens such as pollen, dust, mold and animal dander.

Will my individual health insurance pay for treatment?

Most health insurance companies will pay for medical care associated with allergy treatment. However, you should check with your insurance company before seeking treatment to be sure that you're covered. If you follow the guidelines set by your insurance company, you shouldn't have any problems.