Ever since i can remember I've had terrible hay fever. Once i had to take 2 weeks off just because i was so tired from waking up and not being able to breathe. Every year i go to my Dr. at least 4 times during the hay fever season. He gives me a different medication each year and they never do much good. I've had syrups inhalers eye drops nasal sprays etc. but there never much good. I cut out most milk and dairy products but its still the same story. What can i do this year?

You say you've gone to your doc every year. What you actually need is to see an allergist – a doc specializing in treating allergies. He can do tine tests to determine exactly what you're allergic to. That will help him work out a personalized regimen of treatment for you. That treatment may include a nasal spray (an allergist should know this, but pls be sure to stay away from steroid based nasal sprays. They can cause something called a rebound effect which will only make you feel worse. There are several good non-steroidal sprays that work very well for lots of people. I've used Flonase and Nasonex and both worked well and are steroid-free.) as well as a med by mouth. It could also include a once weekly allergy shot. I've been retired from nursing for a while, but I believe there is a shot given at the beginning of allergy season that is supposed to supress your symptoms throughout the whole season. This would be something to definitely ask the allergist about if you choose to go that way. I hope you do, and as a nurse I can tell you with confidence that an allergist is your best bet. You may need a referral from your primary doc to see an allergist.

One step you can take on your own right now is to start using Breathe Right strips. These are strips that fit over the bridge of your nose. You put one on at bedtime ( the directions say you can actually wear one for 12 hours at a time, so if you're bothered badly in the evening you don't have to wait for bedtime to use one. Just estimate the 12 hour interval by using the time you plan to rise in the morning.) and it holds your nasal passages open to allow free breathing during the night. My husband just started using them after years of sinus and allergy problems and they are a Godsend! He is finally able to sleep through the night.

If you live in an area where there are Safeway stores, they have a generic brand that is identical to the brand name and much cheaper at the pharmacy. If not, check other grocery stores, discount stores, etc. I'm sure there are other generic brands out there.

Hope this helps. I know how miserable you must be.

Filed under: dairy hay

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