Most Louisiana residents can’t wait for some fall weather, but we can do without fall allergies. Allergist and immunologist at Ochsner Health, Doctor John Carlson, says there are some real good options at your local drug store that can prevent a reaction to seasonal allergies.
“The most effective medication is a nose spray that has a steroid in it,” Carlson said.
Doctor Carlson says Saline nasal sprays and artificial tears can also help wash pollen out of your eyes.
Ragweed is the biggest culprit when it comes to fall allergies and Carlson says mold spores are also a problem.
“But as the vegetation begins to die back in the fall, as long as it’s moist outside, those the spores will also be really abundant in the air,” Carlson warned.
Carlson says pollen counts are usually the highest between 4 a.m. and 8 a.m., so limit your outdoor activities and shower after spending an extended amount of time outdoors. He says if allergies are hindering your lifestyle, there are some options.
“There’s actually a tablet that we can use to desensitize people with ragweed pollen allergy. That’s pretty safe and works pretty well, but that is, unfortunately, by prescription and you do need to see an allergist if you want to consider that, or allergy shots, if you’ve got a lot of different allergies,” Carlson said.
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