Health care
BY HEATHER MCCULLOUGH
Internal medicine doctor discusses allergy symptoms, treatments As springtime pollen allergies approach, North Texas residents with seasonal allergies may experience increased symptoms. Dr. Deepika Kumaresan, an internal medicine doctor with Baylor Scott & White Health, spoke with Community Impact about allergies in Dallas- Fort Worth, including symptoms, most prevalent allergens and treatment. This interview has been edited for length and clarity. For a longer version, visit communityimpact.com. What are allergies, and what does the average person need to know about them? Allergies occur when the body’s immune system overreacts to substances that are typically harmless—like pollen, dust, mold or pet dander. When exposed, the immune system releases
chemicals, such as histamine, which trigger symptoms ranging from sneezing and itchy eyes to more serious reactions. Understanding your triggers and recognizing symptoms early helps you manage allergies effectively. Which allergens are most prevalent in North Texas? North Texas experiences a high burden of airborne allergens throughout the year. The most common include: • Tree pollens: oak, pecan, cedar, elm • Grass pollens: Bermuda and Johnson grass • Weeds: ragweed, especially in the fall How should people treat them? The right care team can help you develop a personalized plan to finally get them under control. Common treatments include over-the-counter antihistamines, nasal corticosteroid sprays and decongestants for short-term relief. Environmental controls—such as keeping windows closed, using air conditioning and regularly cleaning indoor spaces— can also help reduce exposure.
COURTESY BAYLOR SCOTT & WHITE
Common allergies by season In Texas—and especially North Texas—seasonal allergies can occur nearly year‑round due to the climate and plant diversity, Kumaresan said.
Winter (December-February): cedar pollen
Spring (February-May): tree pollens
Summer (April-September): grass pollen
Fall (August-November): ragweed
Storylines. Laughlines. Ridgeline. Welcome to Ridgeline, where home, nature, and town come together. Expertly built, your home offers quality, style, and comfort. Nearby trails and on-site resort-style amenities invite exploration, while proximity to McKinney offers convenient dining and shopping. TRADITIONAL HOMES DAVID WEEKLEY HOMES • GRAND HOMES • HIGHLAND HOMES PERRY HOMES • SHADDOCK HOMES LUXURY TOWNHOMES DAVID WEEKLEY HOMES • DREES CUSTOM HOMES
RIDGELINEMcKINNEY.COM
15
MCKINNEY EDITION
Powered by FlippingBook