Southwest Austin Dripping Springs Edition | June 2023

INSIDE INFO

2023 HEALTH CARE EDITION

Navigating allergies in Central Texas

Remedies for allergies Over-the-counter medications are commonly used for seasonal allergy symptoms in adults, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.

Most common allergens in Central Texas

The allergens in the area include grass, mold, ragweed, dust mites and trees. In spring, trees release pollen through June, and windy, dry conditions move the pollen in the air. In the winter, cedar fever is common.

Nasal corticosteroid sprays

Decongestants

Nasal rinses

Relieve sneezing and itching in the nose and eyes while reducing a runny nose Zyrtec, Allegra, Claritin Antihistamines

Help relieve stuness/ congestion Sudafed, Vicks Sinex, Afrin

Reduce swelling in the nose and block allergic reactions Flonase, Nasacort, Rhinocort

Clear sinuses, removing pollen and mucus Ayr, Neilmed or own recipe

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Ash Mountain cedar

Elm Fall elm

Mold

Pecan

Dust mite

Grass

Oak

Marsh elder pigwood

Ragweed

While most states get a break from seasonal allergies during the winter, Central Texas faces allergens year round. Find out more about local seasonal allergies below:

Jan.

What causes allergies ? Allergies are caused by the body’s immune system overreacting to something foreign in the environment, such as pollen or mold. The cause of allergies is unknown, but there are predictions among specialists. Do allergies get worse ?

What is “cedar fever” ? Allergies in the Austin area from December through February are largely caused by the ashe juniper tree, more commonly known as the mountain cedar tree. The term “cedar fever” refers to allergy • Sneezing • Itchy eyes • Sore throat • Headache • Fatigue It does not usually come with an actual fever, according to Greater Austin Allergy. symptoms including: • Nasal congestion

When to see a doctor

July June Aug. Sept. Feb. March April May

Allergy symptoms Those with allergies may experience symptoms similar to a cold or u. Below are some common symptoms and if they may be related to allergies. Sneezing, runny nose or stuy nose Fatigue Cough Headache

When over-the-counter remedies are not working or other allergic conditions including asthma or eczema are aecting someone, this is a good time to see a specialist.

A specialist can also discover what someone is allergic to and provide additional remedies. People with certain allergies may seek immunotherapy —or the practice of exposing individuals to allergens slowly to build up a tolerance. These include: • Allergy shots: given at the doctor's oce • Sublingual immunotherapy: drops placed under the tongue at home daily

Mountain cedar

In some ways, yes. After being exposed to common allergens during one season, the next exposure may cause a reaction.

Itchy eyes

Sore throat

Oct. Nov. Dec.

Fever

Shortness of breath

Aches and pains

Loss of taste or smell

SOURCES: ASTHMA AND ALLERGY FOUNDATION OF AMERICA, DR. ALEXANDER ALVAREZ OF AUSTIN REGIONAL CLINIC, GREATER AUSTIN ALLERGYCOMMUNITY IMPACT

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