Environmental Allergy

Allergic rhinitis (allergies) refers to a collection of symptoms that affect the nose. They develop in susceptible individuals after breathing in an allergy-causing substance in their immediate environment, such as pollen, pet dander, or dust.

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Allergic rhinitis can be seasonal or perennial. During the spring and fall months, seasonal allergies occur in response to outdoor allergens, such as pollen or airborne mold spores. Perennial allergies cause symptoms year-round and can occur in response to indoor substances. The most common triggers associated with allergic rhinitis include:

Pollens from grass
Trees and weeds
Cigarette smoke
Perfume or exhaust
Dust mites and mold
Pet hair or dander

Treatment Options for Allergic Rhinitis

Several treatment options are available for allergic rhinitis, including medications, home remedies, and alternative solutions. It is recommended that you see a Miami allergy specialist to determine which remedies are right for you.

Medications

Antihistamines, decongestants, allergy drops, and nasal sprays are examples of medications that are often used to treat allergic rhinitis. Antihistamines relieve allergy symptoms by stopping your body from producing histamine. Decongestants can be used for a short time to improve a stuffy nose and sinus pressure. Eye drops and nasal drops can temporarily address itchiness and other allergy-related symptoms.

Home Remedies

Many SFENTA patients can find relief from their allergies through home remedies. For example, if seasonal substances trigger your symptoms, you may want to keep your windows and doors closed during allergy season and instead run an air conditioner with a filter designed specifically for those with allergies. Or, if you’re bothered by dust mites, washing your sheets and blankets frequently and limiting carpet use can help.

Alternative Medicine

In some cases, alternative treatment solutions can complement home remedies and traditional medications with highly successful results. For example, acupuncture and nasal saline irrigation are two alternative approaches that have helped many SFENTA patients find relief from their allergic rhinitis symptoms.

What Causes Environmental Allergies?

Allergies are a response from the immune system to something in your environment. This is usually something that’s harmless on the surface but causes a reaction for you. We mostly see examples of this in pet dander, dust, or pollen, which can be released into the air by trees, grass, or weeds. Allergies will last anywhere from a couple of days to a few months, or even longer if you continue coming into contact with the allergen. Environmental allergy symptoms usually include itchy or watery eyes, a runny nose, and congestion. An experienced allergy provider can work with you to determine the cause of your allergy and help you find lasting solutions for your symptoms.

Symptoms of Allergies

Runny or stuffy nose
Itchy eyes, skin, and mouth
Sneezing and coughing
Sore, scratchy throat
Headaches and fatigue
Watery eyes

About SFENTA

SFENTA is one of South Florida’s top-rated providers for allergy care. Since our inception over 30 years ago, we’ve been providing patients with comprehensive care for the ear, nose, and throat. We’ve continuously expanded across South Florida to ensure that your access to quality medical care is always convenient and now have over 30 locations.

Our goal is to provide patients with:

Patient-Centered Care

You’ll receive one-on-one care at every visit. Our providers will craft a customized treatment plan to address your unique symptoms.

Continuity of Care

We believe in helping patients achieve long-term relief for their symptoms, not just short-term solutions.

A Highly Trained Physician Network

With over 50 board-certified and fellowship-trained physicians, we’ve built a network unlike any other ENT provider in our area.

The Security of a Community Staple

Our staff have been helping patients in South Florida for over 30 years, so you can feel confident in the quality of your treatment.

How to Prevent Environmental Allergies

Environmental allergies can affect both adults and children of all ages. Here are some helpful tips to avoid lasting symptoms:

Avoid being outdoors when pollen counts are high
Do not exercise outdoors early in the morning
Shower immediately after spending time outdoors
Keep your windows and doors shut during allergy season
Bathe your dog frequently to minimize pet dander
Remove carpeting from your home if dust mites are a trigger