Spring Break
Got the sniffles? Maybe it's spring allergies
Issue date: 4/30/09
With allergies being such a widespread and long-lasting problem, researchers are investigating preventative medicines and treatments that may permanently turn off the pathways that lead to runny noses and itchy eyes.
In terms of over-the-counter drugs, one can only treat the symptoms of allergies temporarily. Allergies can be remedied in numerous ways, including bronchodilators that enlarge the airways for easier breathing, antihistamines that prevent sneezing and itchy noses and leukotriene antagonists that curb the sniffles.
In terms of prevention, if you are prescribed allergy-combating medications, it is crucial to use them consistently. "Take them every day throughout the season. If you stop them, the symptoms will come back within four to five days," Creticos said.
However, some of the most exciting progress is being made in long-term immunizations against allergies. Bits of DNA are added to an allergen to make it able to produce a greater immune response. After four to six shots of this modified allergen, the patient can generate immunity to the normal allergen for years. They are even working to develop a pill for those who don't like or are too busy for shots so that one day, the long-term prevention of springtime allergies can be done from home.
In the meantime, grab a pocket-pack of Kleenex, take your favorite antihistamine and hope the pollen count is low.
In terms of over-the-counter drugs, one can only treat the symptoms of allergies temporarily. Allergies can be remedied in numerous ways, including bronchodilators that enlarge the airways for easier breathing, antihistamines that prevent sneezing and itchy noses and leukotriene antagonists that curb the sniffles.
In terms of prevention, if you are prescribed allergy-combating medications, it is crucial to use them consistently. "Take them every day throughout the season. If you stop them, the symptoms will come back within four to five days," Creticos said.
However, some of the most exciting progress is being made in long-term immunizations against allergies. Bits of DNA are added to an allergen to make it able to produce a greater immune response. After four to six shots of this modified allergen, the patient can generate immunity to the normal allergen for years. They are even working to develop a pill for those who don't like or are too busy for shots so that one day, the long-term prevention of springtime allergies can be done from home.
In the meantime, grab a pocket-pack of Kleenex, take your favorite antihistamine and hope the pollen count is low.
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