I Guess I got what's going around

What is walking in this week.......

So, you say your nose is running and you have this terrible cough?

Have your eyes started itching and watering?

How much sneezing are you doing?

Yes it is springtime in central Texas and that means one thing for sure, it is allergy season. So what exactly is in the air? Well according to the allergy network it is tree pollen specifically poplar, aspen, cottonwood, and hackberry. Oh and by the way there is also some grass in the air.

So, what can you do about this misery? Well one good source for tips is the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology and their tip sheet for dealing with outdoor allergens. Some recommendations worth remembering are:

• DO keep windows closed at night to prevent pollens or molds from drifting into your home. Instead, if needed, use air conditioning, which cleans, cools, and dries the air.


• DO minimize early morning activity when pollen is usually emitted-between 5-10 a.m.


• DO keep your car windows closed when traveling.


• DO try to stay indoors when the pollen count or humidity is reported to be high, and on windy days when dust and pollen are blown about.


• DO take you allergy medications as prescribed

Remember, the over the counter antihistamines work pretty well and they do not require a visit. If you are not getting much relief from these medications, then a trip to office may be in order so we can confirm allergies as a source of your troubles, and talk about other options for treating your symptoms.