Columbus Dispatch: Spring Allergy Season is Here

Are you sniffling, sneezing or itching? Spring allergy season is here in Ohio, and for some, it can be miserable.  So, what can you do, and how can you combat all of those issues? OhioHealth Dublin Methodist Hospital family medicine physician, Ben Bring, DO,  talked to The Columbus Dispatch to provide some answers, and, hopefully relief.

Dr. Bring says that seasonal allergies can actually start as early as February and last until the fall.  Dr. Bring tells The Columbus Dispatch, that not all allergies are created equal. "From now through May, blame the tree pollen that comes from oaks, elms, hickories and the like. After that, blame grass through early summer. And then late summer and fall, blame weeds (mostly ragweed)."

The best way many have found to combat some of the allergies is through over-the-counter medication. But there are so many to choose from. Dr. Bring says read the label, and ask for help.  "Ask the pharmacist to recommend a "second generation" antihistamine. Claritin and Zyrtec are common brand names, but there are others," Dr. Bring said.

Dr. Bring told The Columbus Dispatch to check for ingredients such as cetirizine, fexofenadine and loratadine.

One of the main things happening right now, patients asking about COVID-19, when they are suffering from allergies.

"Sneezing doesn't usually accompany coronavirus, and the lost of taste and smell doesn't happen with allergies. When in doubt, ask your doctor," Bring said.

To read the full article from The Columbus Dispatch, with additional information on hay fever, sore throats and more, click on the Dispatch logo below.