July 5, 2023 Issue, Page 6 of 6

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6- The Elk City News July 5, 2023 GO BEYOND (QUICK FIXES WITH LONG-TERM ALLERGY RELIEF OPTIONS Photos courtesyof Getty Images 4, IIPS TO TACKLE AND ALLEVIATE SYMPTOMS FOR LASTING RELIEF OPTIONS FAMILY FEATURES on dry and windy days or armer weather means flowers and trees are blooming, choosing to go outside later but for the millions of Americans who suffer from in the day when pollen counts seasonal allergies, it also means coughing, sneezing, are generally lower. Before itchy eyes, congestion and other symptoms aren't heading outside, check pollen far behind. forecasts and current levels in Allergies, defined by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of the area, America (AAFA) as an immune reaction to a foreign substance, or Rainfall helps clear pollen allergen, can develop after an allergen is ingested, inhaled, injected from the air, making rainy or or touched, About one-quarter (25.7%) ofadults suffer from seasonal cloudy days ideal for outdoor allergies, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, activities, However, many outdoor which are commonly caused by grass, tree and weed pollens, activities rely on clear and sunny When allergies act up, many people reach for medications like weather. In such situations, taking antihistamines, decongestants and other over-the-counter (OTC) additional precautions becomes necessary. medicines for quick, yet temporary, symptom relief. While symptoms For instance, try wearing a face mask while may subside, there are side effects to prolonged use of OTC medicines performing outdoor chores like mowing, such as dry mouth, drowsiness and blurred vision, among others. gardening or pulling weeds, which can stir up Innovative alternatives, such as allergy immunotherapy, are now allergens. It’s also important to refrain from hanging available from the convenience of a patient’s home. This treatment laundry outside, as pollen tends to adhere to linens and offers more effective long-term relief compared to antihistamine clothing. People should promptly remove clothes after being pills, which only mask symptoms temporarily. Sublingual outside and take a bath to rinse off any pollen from the skin and hair. recently started to gain popularity in the U.S.,” said Dr. immunotherapy is an effective option for people who don’t want the Bringing allergens indoors, especially onto bedding, can worsen symp- Shyam Joshi, MD, board certified allergist and immu- inconvenience or safety risk associated with allergy shots. toms or prolong their duration. Additionally, closing doors and win- nologist and chief medical officer at Nectar Life Sciences. “More than 120 million people in the U.S. suffer from allergies and dows when pollen counts are high is advisable. “Our allergy drops are unique from most others in the their related diseases, making it the most prevalent chronic illness U.S. market because the allergen concentrations we use facing our nation,” said Dr. Ken Chahine, Ph.D., J.D., founding CEO Look for Long-Term Symptom Relief are higher than other allergy drops, which, based on of Nectar Life Sciences. “Nectar’s mission is to empower consumers. While allergen avoidance and OTC medications like antihistamines and scores ofclinical studies conducted both in Europe and with breakthrough solutions that can put an end to allergies and, in decongestants can be effective, they may not work for everyone. For the U.S., are necessary to achieve clinical benefits and turn, build healthier, more productive communities.” those seeking an alternative to antihistamines, allergy immunotherapy long-term relief.” To help combat symptoms this allergy season, which will be offers a viable option. With more than 100 years ofclinical practice, longer and more intense due to climate change, according to the allergy immunotherapy has shown it can improve long-term quality of Keep Indoor Air Clean AAFA, consider these tips for long-lasting symptom relief. life. The concept behind this therapy is to regularly expose the body to jaintain allergen-free indoor spaces, it is advisable to the allergen, gradually building immunity and reducing sensitivity, ulti- frain from opening windows in the house or car when Recognize Allergy Symptoms mately leading to fewer or even no allergy symptoms. pollen counts are high. However, there are other measures Although seasonal allergies typically affect the nose, eyes, mouth Sublingual immunotherapy is an innovative form of immunotherapy you can take to minimize exposure indoors. Utilizing an and sinuses, the symptoms and triggers can vary among individuals. that is common in Europe and is now available in the U.S, It involves air conditioner equipped with high-efficiency filters and While itching in the roof of the mouth, hives and watery eyes are taking two drops per day ofa personalized prescription under the adhering to regular maintenance schedules for heating considered classic allergy symptoms, others may resemble signs of tongue to achieve the same long-term relief that allergy shots can pro- and cooling systems are effective strategies. Additionally, illness or infection, such as coughing, sneezing, congestion, body vide. Allergy care platform Nectar offers a comprehensive allergy treat- frequent dusting of countertops, shelves and tables is rec- aches, pain or a stuffy or runny nose. If these symptoms persist for ment program that can be conducted from the comfort of a patient's ommended, along with cleaning carpets using a vacuum a week or two, it is possible you are reacting to seasonal allergens. home. The program begins with an at-home allergy test, which is cleaner equipped with a high-efficiency particulate air Conversely, if you experience symptoms throughout the year, Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments-certified and covers a (HEPA) filter. Using a dehumidifier can help maintain dry they might be caused by common allergens found in homes and wide range of indoor and outdoor allergens, After carefully reviewing indoor air and reduce the risk of mold growth. Further- workplaces, such as dust, mold or pet dander, the test results and taking into account the patient’s clinical history and more, consider installing portable air purifiers with built-in geographic location, a licensed provider determines the most suitable HEPA filters in bedrooms or frequently occupied rooms treatment option. The personalized prescription is then delivered to the throughout the home. Reduce Exposure to Allergens Outdoors patient every three months. Over time, as the body builds tolerance to The best way to avoid allergy symptoms is by eliminating or the allergens, symptoms generally diminish and fade away. To learn more or access online resources that can help you reducing exposure to triggers. In the case of seasonal allergies, the “Sublingual immunotherapy allergy drops have been used and fight allergies, such as the Help Center and Learning Hub, primary trigger is typically pollen. This may require staying indoor studied extensively in Europe for more than 30 years but have only visit MyNectar.com,