Diagnosis is important. A history should be taken of the timing of symptoms, identifying plants and trees that grow in the area, and if relief comes by going away on holiday. Test results can be interpreted by a doctor trained in allergy, in conjunction with the person's history. Seek advice from your pharmacist or doctor about medications that will relieve your symptoms.
Although medications do not cure allergies, they are much more effective with few side effects. It is important to use them correctly, and to avoid medications that can cause problems such as frequent decongestant unblocking nose sprays or tablets. Antihistamine tablets or syrups non-sedating help to reduce symptoms sneezing, itchy and irritated eyes , but they are not as effective in controlling severe nasal blockage and dribble.
The advantage of antihistamines is their flexibility; you can take them when you have symptoms, and avoid them when you are well. Antihistamine eye drops can also be helpful in controlling watery eyes due to allergies. Intranasal corticosteroid nasal sprays INCS have a potent action on inflammation when used regularly like asthma preventer medications.
These need to be used regularly and with careful attention to the way in which they are used. Different brands of INCS vary in strength and effectiveness, so it is important to read the labels and check details with your pharmacist or doctor. Combination medications containing an antihistamine and intranasal corticosteroid nasal spray are available and offer the combined advantages of both medications.
Decongestant sprays unblock and dry the nose, but should not be used for more than a few days as they can cause long term problems in the nose.
Decongestant tablets unblock and dry the nose, but should be used with caution as they can have 'stimulant' side effects like tremors, trouble sleeping, anxiety or an increase in blood pressure. People with high blood pressure should not take decongestant sprays. Natural products such as salt water nasal sprays or douches can be effective in relieving symptoms.
Appropriate management of pollen asthma includes commencing asthma preventer medication before, or at the first sign of asthma symptoms. Some people undergoing allergen immunotherapy for allergic rhinitis find that their asthma improves as well. Medications only reduce the severity of symptoms and do not cure allergic rhinitis. Another treatment option is allergen immunotherapy AIT which is also known as desensitisation. AIT switches off the allergic reaction, by repeatedly introducing small doses of allergen extracts, by injection, sublingual tablets, sprays or drops.
ASCIA resources are based on published literature and expert review, however, they are not intended to replace medical advice. Information for the community about allergic diseases, immunodeficiencies and other immune diseases. See latest edition here Join our mailing list:. Read more The content provided is for education, communication and information purposes only and is not intended to replace or constitute medical advice or treatments.
Find an Allergist. Symptoms If you have a pollen allergy and breathe in pollen-heavy air, you may experience symptoms such as: Sneezing Nasal congestion Runny nose Watery eyes Itchy throat and eyes Wheezing Pollen can also aggravate asthma symptoms, including increased coughing and wheezing.
Management and Treatment Find an allergist to pinpoint the cause of your symptoms and help you find relief. Two immunotherapy options are available for those with severe pollen allergies: Allergy shots can help your body build resistance to pollens.
Tablets that dissolve under the tongue are now available by prescription for people suffering from grass and ragweed allergies. These medications must be started 12 weeks before symptoms are expected to begin.
Submit site search Need An Allergist? What Does An Allergist Treat? Who Gets Asthma? Close Modal Close Modal. You may also see a wheal. A wheal is a raised, round area that looks like a hive. Usually, the larger the wheal, the more likely you are to be allergic to the allergen.
A positive SPT to a particular pollen allergen does not necessarily mean that a person has an allergy. Specific IgE Blood Test Blood tests are helpful when people have a skin condition or are taking medicines that interfere with skin testing.
They may also be used in children who may not tolerate skin testing. Your doctor will take a blood sample and send it to a laboratory. The lab adds the allergen to your blood sample. Then they measure the amount of antibodies your blood produces to attack the allergens. As with skin testing, a positive blood test to an allergen does not necessarily mean that an allergen caused your symptoms.
That said, if you're worried about telling the difference between symptoms , whenever they do arise, listen up: The COVID and allergy symptoms that typically overlap are headaches, wheezing, and sore throat. It's also possible to experience nasal congestion, a runny nose, and sneezing with COVID, too, though these are more commonly allergy symptoms.
A dry cough, shortness of breath, and loss of smell, are all likely COVID symptoms, though there's always the possibility that these are the side effects of allergies. Overall, though, if you're having trouble telling if your symptoms are allergies or COVID, your best bet is to check in with a doctor's office or urgent-care center.
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