Column: Dr Caroline Sokol On Seasonal Allergies
[Column written by Dr Caroline Sokol]
As Bermuda moves through the warmer months of the year, many people find themselves dealing with what seems like an incredibly poorly timed cold – but might really be allergies. These are incredibly common and may have a bigger impact on quality of life for many people than you would guess.
Environmental allergens – things that trigger those allergic reactions – can be sorted into two groups: seasonal ones and perennial ones. Seasonal allergens are things like pollen from local plants. which may only bloom a few times a year.
The second type are present year-round and include things like dust mites, cats, dogs and [horrifyingly!] cockroaches. Things such as mould, which may be more prevalent after a rainy season, can also cause a reaction.
Seasonal allergies, while common, can also be quite severe. Even though they might not last long, they can cause a wide variety of symptoms including a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, dry or watery eyes and itching and they can be really intense. That does not even include allergic asthma, which can also be triggered.
All of this can really make you feel unwell, tired and foggy headed, to the point that it can sometimes be difficult to tell whether you are sick or whether your symptoms are being caused by allergies.
Pollens are the most common cause of seasonal allergies, but it might surprise you what you’re actually allergic to: while fragrant flowers, like Easter lilies, can often make us sneeze, that’s because the scent can irritate the nose, but they aren’t actually an allergen.
It is incredibly difficult to avoid all seasonal allergens: you can keep your windows closed and use an air conditioning or ventilation system with HEPA filtration to reduce exposure, but as soon as you step outside, you’re likely to get hit with it anyway.
Because of that, you may be best off taking allergy medication during the season. Oral antihistamines and nasal steroid sprays are available over the counter and generally work best when taken consistently. You may want to take the non-drowsy type to minimise side effects, but your pharmacist or GP can guide you. Ideally, you should start taking these drugs before or at the beginning of your allergy season, rather than waiting until symptoms become severe, and take them regularly.
If your symptoms are severe or over-the-counter medications are not helping, it may be worth seeing an allergist – you can ask your primary care physician for a referral. Some patients are candidates for allergy immunotherapy, commonly known as allergy shots, which can significantly reduce symptoms and may provide relief for many years.
For Bermuda residents, seasonal allergies can be an unwelcome part of the summer, but effective treatments are available. Understanding your triggers, using appropriate medications and seeking specialist advice when needed can help you stay comfortable and enjoy the months ahead.
- Dr Caroline Sokol, Allergist & Immunologist at Mass General Brigham
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