Friday, April 29, 2005
Spring is here. Everything is green and growing, and the weather is starting to warm up. But for those with seasonal allergies, enjoying spring is hard when living in a haze of sneezing, coughing and congestion.
For one student, allergy symptoms haven’t been too bad. Kyle Hlavacek, Overland Park senior, said his allergies were less intense this year.
But for Shannon Stewart, Lee’s Summit, Mo., junior, this year topped all the rest. Her allergies gave her bronchitis and two eye infections, all within a week.
“They just seem to get worse every year,” she said.
Seasonal allergies are the result of the immune system reacting to pollen, Patricia Denning, Watkins Memorial Health Center chief of staff, said.
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When the body encounters pollen, it produces an antibody and histamine. These cause side effects such as swelling, sinus congestion and red and itchy eyes, she said.
While most people have mild seasonal allergies, they can lead to more serious problems, such as eye and sinus infections.
People with asthma are also at risk because allergies can trigger breathing problems or an asthma attack, Denning said.
How to relieve allergies is a question people ask every year as they break out the tissues.
A reduction in outdoor activity is the best preventive measure any student could take, especially on windy days, Denning said. Those with eye problems can wear sunglasses to keep pollen out of their eyes.
An air conditioner can help filter the air, even if only the fan is on. Students should check the filter regularly to ensure the best results, she said. Students should also keep doors and windows shut.
“I know it feels good to feel the breeze, but you’re just letting pollen in,” Denning said.
Beyond prevention, there are prescription and over-the-counter drugs available to provide relief to students.
Prescription drugs can be most effective, but can cost between $1 to $1.50 per dose per day.
Only students with the most severe problems should receive allergy shots. These are available by prescription from an allergist.
Hlavacek said he was lucky this year. His allergies have been less intense this year for some reason but he didn’t know why.
Because his allergies aren’t bothering him, Hlavacek said he wouldn’t stop going outside and would just rely on his medication.
But at Stewart’s apartment the air conditioner is running.
— Edited by Lisa Coble-Krings
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