Last year, I interviewed allergy specialist Dr. Lacey Robinson to discuss my own tree pollen allergies—allergies which typically convert spring, my favorite time of year, into a histamine-induced slog. The interview was so life-changing for me that I decided I’d edit and republish it this year (and maybe every year, with changes as needed).
Thanks for these great tips. I recently discovered Blexten (Bilastine) antihistamines and they have been life changing (prescription only - at least in Canada). I am also on my second year of sublingual immunotherapy (Itulatek) for birch pollen (my main allergen) and so far I notice a big difference. It is a commitment but can take the daily dose at home which makes it easier! Much more convenient than allergy shots.
Showering at night to get the day's general residue off has made such a huge difference for me, even in non-allergy season. I sleep so much better; plus it's a way to tell my brain to start winding down for bedtime.
Does Flonase help with clogged sinuses, or just with running and clogged noses?
Do you have any experience with intralymphatic immunotherapy (ILIT). I've been on conventional shots for about 3 years and have had some relief but still have constant sinus clogging, which an several ENTs over the years have said is not structural. ILIT is spposed to be 3 shots and done, but is not covered by most insurance.
Data point of one here, but definitely try allergy shots! I started a course last fall and I am on maintenance dose now. The difference this spring versus last spring is amazing. No need for Zyrtec! I went from not even being able to use my screened porch for several weeks to being able to garden without any issues. I used to have problems sleeping at night during allergy season because of so much congestion. Not a problem anymore. The time to do it is a pain, but once you get to maintenance, it's a once-a-month thing, so not so bad.
Thank you, Dr. Jeremy. I decided to try Systane complete since you mentioned you use it for dry, itchy eyes. It seems to be working much better than Refresh Plus. Fingers crossed.
You don't mention Xyzal (levocetirizine), which is similar to Zyrtec, and which I've found helpful - though like Pam Kilberg's experience with Zyrtec, I do find some drowsy-like side effect. Neither Claritin nor Allegra works for me. (I had gotten pretty good at titrating dosage of chlorpheniramine, but if I was off even a little, it either wouldn't work or would make me very drowsy.) I suspect the makers of Xyzal recommend taking it before going to bed because then if it is somewhat soporific, it won't be so noticeable. -- Regarding eye issues, can you comment on Alaway (ketotifen)? I've sometimes found that if my primary symptoms are itchy eyes, that has helped. Though I try a "dry-eye" medication first - Systane, Refresh, Soothe have all been recommended by ophthalmologists; I don't find much difference in their effect on me.
Thanks for these great tips. I recently discovered Blexten (Bilastine) antihistamines and they have been life changing (prescription only - at least in Canada). I am also on my second year of sublingual immunotherapy (Itulatek) for birch pollen (my main allergen) and so far I notice a big difference. It is a commitment but can take the daily dose at home which makes it easier! Much more convenient than allergy shots.
Zyrtec Withdrawal Is a Nightmare.
What's your reaction to this?
https://www.peoplespharmacy.com/articles/zyrtec-withdrawal-is-a-nightmare
These are great tips, thank you!
Showering at night to get the day's general residue off has made such a huge difference for me, even in non-allergy season. I sleep so much better; plus it's a way to tell my brain to start winding down for bedtime.
Does Flonase help with clogged sinuses, or just with running and clogged noses?
Do you have any experience with intralymphatic immunotherapy (ILIT). I've been on conventional shots for about 3 years and have had some relief but still have constant sinus clogging, which an several ENTs over the years have said is not structural. ILIT is spposed to be 3 shots and done, but is not covered by most insurance.
Data point of one here, but definitely try allergy shots! I started a course last fall and I am on maintenance dose now. The difference this spring versus last spring is amazing. No need for Zyrtec! I went from not even being able to use my screened porch for several weeks to being able to garden without any issues. I used to have problems sleeping at night during allergy season because of so much congestion. Not a problem anymore. The time to do it is a pain, but once you get to maintenance, it's a once-a-month thing, so not so bad.
Thank you, Dr. Jeremy. I decided to try Systane complete since you mentioned you use it for dry, itchy eyes. It seems to be working much better than Refresh Plus. Fingers crossed.
The interview and Q/A’s worked for me. Thank you. Went to an allergist. Switched some meds around. So far so good
You don't mention Xyzal (levocetirizine), which is similar to Zyrtec, and which I've found helpful - though like Pam Kilberg's experience with Zyrtec, I do find some drowsy-like side effect. Neither Claritin nor Allegra works for me. (I had gotten pretty good at titrating dosage of chlorpheniramine, but if I was off even a little, it either wouldn't work or would make me very drowsy.) I suspect the makers of Xyzal recommend taking it before going to bed because then if it is somewhat soporific, it won't be so noticeable. -- Regarding eye issues, can you comment on Alaway (ketotifen)? I've sometimes found that if my primary symptoms are itchy eyes, that has helped. Though I try a "dry-eye" medication first - Systane, Refresh, Soothe have all been recommended by ophthalmologists; I don't find much difference in their effect on me.
Thanks for this helpful info. FYI… maybe it’s just me, but Zyrtec makes me drowsy