Pollen is Here! (and There and Everywhere)

By Tori Coble, DO, Emergency Medicine Resident, UNC Health Southeastern

What people refer to as “allergies” is an overactivation of the body’s immune system in response to an irritant, in this case, pollen.

Although vital for our beautiful ecosystem, in many cases, this substance causes the body to produce the chemical, histamine, which leads to commonly experienced symptoms of itchy and watery eyes, sneezing, coughing, and sore throat. Some people suffer from serious allergies that can impact daily life functions.

So, how do we coexist with our plant family? Just remember to S-N-E-E-Z-E.

“How do I treat my allergies at home?”

• Spring cleaning: Pollen attaches to surfaces and serves as a constant trigger for our immune system. Make sure to wash surfaces, bedding, and furniture fabric frequently.
• Nasal spray: The use of saline nasal spray is helpful in ridding the trapped pollen particles in the nasal cavities. One may use a few sprays in each nostril or as irrigation. Medicated nasal sprays like Flonase can be used after nasal cleansing and may also be helpful in controlling symptoms.
• Exposure: Limit exposure to allergens. Limit or avoid outside time on days when pollen count is high. Wear a mask and make sure to wash clothing and body upon returning inside.
• Antihistamines (EZ): Use of antihistamine medications can be very helpful in controlling symptoms as these actively work against the production of the chemical causing the allergic response. Some examples include Allegra, Zyrtec, and Claritin (with their respective generic formulations).
• Expert advice: It is important to confirm with your primary care provider that allergy medications, as well as medicated nasal sprays, do not interfere with your current medication regimen or medical history. If you find your symptoms do not improve, follow up with a healthcare provider.

These recommendations are ones that I personally follow. I hope they can help alleviate your symptoms like they have helped mine!

Dr. Tori Coble is an Emergency Medicine Resident at UNC Health Southeastern. In addition to offering services you’d expect from a community health care system, UNC Health Southeastern provides a number of specialized services that are unique to our healthcare system and not available anywhere else in the region. To schedule an appointment, call our referral line at (910) 735-8864. To learn more, visit UNCHealthSE.org. To submit questions for consideration for a future Frequently Asked Questions article, email unchsoutheasterninfo@unchealth.unc.edu.