Jacie Brianne met with allergist Dr. Robert Mamlok today who told her that dust and allergies don’t necessarily go hand in hand. Dust is certainly irritating to our eyes and respiratory systems, but a common misconception is that it enhances problems for those with existing allergies.
“During periods of blowing dust, that people have misery with the irritant effect of their upper airways and that’s the cause for misery for a lot of people, said Dr. Mamlok.”
Studies here in Lubbock as well as Australia and Palm Springs found that dust isn’t sending more people to the emergency room. While you may get the occasional sneeze from the blowing dirt, Dr. Robert Mamlock says some winter time allergies may be what is really bothering you.
“Winter time allergies would fall in the perennial allergy group. Dust mite, mold spore, animal dander would tend to dominate.”
If you’re suffering, it’s likely one of those are to blame but there are some ways to get some relief.
“Over the counter medications like antihistamines are quite effective for nasal drainage, nasal steroid sprays using on a regular basis will help symptoms like nasal blockage.”
Winter and spring time are very different when it comes to allergies. The plus side is that if you struggle with springtime allergies, Dr. Mamlok says you have some time to get a leg up.
“Prevention is always a good key, try to avoid known irritants as well as you can, it’s often easy to say but hard to do. Many patients have had a good response with over the counter medication so be proactive, if you know every spring you’re miserable with your allergies get back on your nose spray, talk to your doctors and have a good plan of care of what to do.”
