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Something’s in the Air

A guide to common seasonal allergies

By Alice Rhein

What’s all the fuss about allergies?
One in eight Americans is allergic to something, and the effects go beyond itchy skin, runny noses and watery eyes. Seasonal allergies cost the United States economy more than $7 billion annually in absenteeism and reduced productivity, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. Allergies are the fifth-leading chronic disease, and steal four days of productivity a year from the average American.

What are allergies?
An allergy is an inappropriate reaction from the body’s immune system, according to Edward Zoratti, M.D., division head of allergy and clinical immunology for the Henry Ford Health System. Immunoglobulin E (IgE), a type of protein made by the immune system to fight specific body invaders, is responsible for triggering the reactions typically seen in allergies – including itchy, watery eyes, stuffy nose and sneezing – and also asthma. Allergies are cumulative, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, and many allergy sufferers are sensitive to more than one allergen.

Severe allergies can cause a drop in blood pressure and an anaphylactic reaction, a sudden response to a one-time stimulant such as a bee sting.

Sneezing, wheezing – sounds like a cold. How are allergies different?
According to the Mayo Clinic, cold symptoms can develop any time and last from two to 14 days, while seasonal allergy symptoms start at the same time every year and may last for months.

When should I see a doctor about allergies?
No rules determine when you should seek help, says Jane Krasnick, M.D., of Warren Allergy & Asthma Care, and chief of allergy and immunology at St. John Macomb Hospital, both in Warren. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America recommends that you consult with a physician any time you suspect allergies are interfering with everyday life.

What are common treatments?
Antihistamines and nasal steroids are effective for many people. Modifying the environment to avoid or eliminate the allergens is also an option. Zoratti says allergy shots, now referred to as vaccines, work by building up tolerance in the immune system.

What are researchers now testing?
Zoratti points to a drug that eliminates IgE and targets severe asthma. The drug is still experimental, and expensive. Researchers are also looking at ways to modify allergy shots to be more effective with fewer injections.

What are the most common natural treatments for allergies?
Lemon/quince in the forms of nasal spray, ointment and subcutaneous shots is used the most and works the best, according to Quentin McMullen, M.D., who practices anthroposophical medicine at the Rudolf Steiner Health Center in Ann Arbor. He also lists berberis (the evergreen known as barberry) and homeopathic silver as natural means of treating allergy symptoms.

Why/how do natural treatments work?
McMullen says such treatments tighten the gaps in the nasal mucosa, stopping allergens from getting into the submucosal space, where allergy action begins.

How can I find others who share my allergy problems?
Several Web sites offer excellent advice for those with allergies, including the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology at www.aaaai.org; the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology at www.acaai.org; and the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, www.aafa.org.