Seasonal Allergies - update pg 2

[icedcoffee]

I don't know fully what I'm looking for here.

I've always had a good amount of sinus issues.  I just chalked it up to getting a lot of colds and them lingering, but covid has made it pretty clear that what I'm dealing with is allergies because I never leave my house and I have constant "cold" symptoms.

I've tried flonase, zyrtec, allegra.  None of them really made any difference so I stopped.  I cough all the damn time.  Constant tickle in my throat.  I can deal with it, but I often wonder if I should be just dealing with it.

So here's my question.  Is there any merit to seeing an allergist to figure out wtf I am allergic to?  Or not really and this is a waste of time and money.

A part of me feels like if we knew what was causing my respiratory system to be so angry that we could treat it better. Or maybe not.

So...suck it up and continue to ignore or see an allergist?  Or someone else?

[orval]

Have you tried Xyzal? That is the only allergy med that works for me. I have to start taking it right at the beginning of allergy season which is like Feb here in NC. I took it daily through May. No real allergy symptoms at all this year.

[redheadk]

I think it's worth a try to see an allergist. I didn't have any luck but my symptoms don't sound quite as severe as yours.

Have you tried Mucinex? I find that clears me out enough that I feel a lot better, at least temporarily.

Any chance it's heartburn (coughing can be a symptom)?

[icedcoffee]

Jun 24, 2021 9:09:18 GMT -5 redheadk said:

I think it's worth a try to see an allergist. I didn't have any luck but my symptoms don't sound quite as severe as yours.

Have you tried Mucinex? I find that clears me out enough that I feel a lot better, at least temporarily.

Any chance it's heartburn (coughing can be a symptom)?

I did try Mucinex.  No difference. 

I don't think it's heartburn, because I do deal with that sometimes, but that's a good thought.  

[icedcoffee]

Jun 24, 2021 9:08:28 GMT -5 orval said:

Have you tried Xyzal? That is the only allergy med that works for me. I have to start taking it right at the beginning of allergy season which is like Feb here in NC. I took it daily through May. No real allergy symptoms at all this year.

No--I will try that one next though.

[just]

Mine are pretty terrible. I struggled myself for a years and even posted on here. About six months ago it got so bad, I went to get a referral to an allergist and my PCP recommended trying some other things first.

She put me on a xyzal (at night) and Flonase and clarityn in the morning cocktail which helped a ton.

However she also said especially since I was coughing so much I might benefit from an albuterol inhaler because my symptoms were likely allergy induced asthma. I never had difficulty breathing or catching my breath but it really did make a huge difference. I’ve only used it 3 times in like 6 months but it, in combination with the cocktail, just helped me get to a good baseline again.

So long story short, maybe chat to your PCP first?

[AdaraMarie]

I think an allergist might be worth it?
How long/how often were you taking the meds you tried?
My understanding is they work best if you take them daily for a while and they take a while to kick in. My dd was prescribed daily zyrtec from March to November.
Could it be a mold or pet issue you could address in addition to medication?
Allergy testing could help identify what the specific triggers are or when the best time is to focus medication, but it might not be that great if the answer is "everything"

[cleo29]

I think it is worth getting tested to really see and know what your irritants are and how to deal with them the best.

I have a friend from high school who was on the verge of sinus surgery when she got a new nasal flush system that she says changed her life. lol She did not end up needing the surgery after using it. It is the same idea as the netti pot, but she said it works much, much better at flushing all the crap out. Honestly, going on a week of this cold and my nose is still a mess, I want to buy one myself!

navage.com/navage-nose-cleaner-and-20-saltpods/?gclid=Cj0KCQjw2tCGBhCLARIsABJGmZ6SgHw3U_hffxQxjWD4FWeyNYiTUszbm-SPayEynAGqhzAISJYjyZAaAu3qEALw_wcB

[Patsy Baloney]

I've heard a lot of people recommend Xyzal for tough allergies.

How long are you taking the medicine before you determine it isn't treating your allergies? Sometimes, it can take a good long while for a medicine to pull allergies under control. My allergies exhibit in my ears and throat, and it takes a while for my ears to clear out if I've been lax on taking my allergy stuff - sometimes close to a month? I do a combo allegra/flonase every day.

For allergy coughs, I find a benadryl at night tends to keep my tickle away. I'm guessing you just haven't found the right active ingredient. If you haven't tried Claritin, you might give that one a go, too, if Xyzal doesn't cut it.

[thoseareradishes]

H had similar symptoms, and Flonase, Zyrtec, and a heartburn med helps a lot. I have heartburn and it presents as back pain, so it's weird.

[icedcoffee]

I've done each med at least a couple weeks before quitting.

I would cry real tears if my dog was a source of my allergies!

[just]

Jun 24, 2021 9:24:44 GMT -5 icedcoffee said:

I've done each med at least a couple weeks before quitting.

I would cry real tears if my dog was a source of my allergies!

This is why I didn't want to go to the allergist. I knew that if I wasn't allergic to our dogs, I was likely allergic to just the volume of fur, and there was no way I was making dog-related changes so what was the point in knowing.

I presumed that I knew everything about allergies and the meds since I've struggled with this for decades, but my PCP (like the person with the MD) shockingly gave me (the person with google) a great path forward. I'd recommend trying there first.

[cleo29]

Jun 24, 2021 9:23:16 GMT -5 thoseareradishes said:

H had similar symptoms, and Flonase, Zyrtec, and a heartburn med helps a lot. I have heartburn and it presents as back pain, so it's weird.

I get that too.  not always, but many times. It actually helps me realize it is heartburn and not an upset stomach. lol

[dcn]

I have all the allergies and have finally settled on Flonase and Zyrtec to control. I’ve also been on a nasal spray antihistamine for spurts too.

However, I also had terrible stomach issues during covid that I am now on Prilosec for and looking back my sore throats etc were 100% reflux. I didn’t have the burning or other symptoms. Ask about LPR/silent reflux. My drs never brought it up as a possibility until it got worse and other symptoms popped up.

I’d definitely see your pcp and then an allergist if other things are ruled out.

[cattledogkisses]

Following along as someone who also has a persistent allergy cough (super fun in the covid era). I've taken Claritin and Allegra with so-so results. My problem is that 24 hour allergy meds always seem to wear off in, like, 12 hours.

[Aloe Vera]

Pet dander and dust mites cause allergies.
I would see an allergist. They will test and determine what you are allergic to. Even if it turns out you're allergic to pet dander, it can be managed with hair purifiers, washing bedding and blankets often in hot water to take care of dust mites too, and getting rid of carpet if possible.
OTC meds are effective. I had severe allergies to grasses and pet dander/dust mites and showering at night + Flonase before bed helped tremendously.
My allergies also trigger asthma. I have an albuterol inhaler on me when needed. I now only use it about 10 times/year.

[yaga]

Definitely see an allergist. I have a severely deviated septum which likely contributes to my very frequent sinus infections. My ENT recommended an allergy doctor to manage my allergies and resulting sinus infections (usually from a cold, not allergies) before surgery. Luckily I've been able to manage by using a variety of over the counter medications and prescription nasal sprays.

I have pretty constant post nasal drip, so the nasal sprays and behind the counter Sudafed are really helpful.

[noodleoo]

I would go! That's sounds miserable. I'd at least have the testing done to find out what you are allergic to. There may be RX medicines that could help you. We see an allergist for DD2's food allergies and he's awesome. It is a PITA because they appts take a long time, but I'd definitely go and at least have the evaluation instead of suffering in silence.

My sister had really bad allergies and asthma and she started allergy shots a while back and it has made a huge difference. It is a commitment since it is a lot of shots, but it has been worth it for her.

[keyslover]

icedcoffee have you seen an ENT for structural issues? I have polyps in my sinuses so things would get stuck and turn into sinus infections. I chose not to have them removed because 1) I was young and stupid 2) procedure sounded gross and 3) they can grow back

I have since aged a couple of decades and #2 & #3 still stand. But, I have since cut out dairy and that has helped me immensely. I also take Flonase and alertec (Costco allergy med) and it helps. I was tested years ago and should really get tested again because i feel like there are more allergens out there now! Used to be end of summer only, not it's other seasons. 😡

[icedcoffee]

Jun 24, 2021 10:35:35 GMT -5 keyslover said:

icedcoffee have you seen an ENT for structural issues? I have polyps in my sinuses so things would get stuck and turn into sinus infections. I chose not to have them removed because 1) I was young and stupid 2) procedure sounded gross and 3) they can grow back

I have since aged a couple of decades and #2 & #3 still stand. But, I have since cut out dairy and that has helped me immensely. I also take Flonase and alertec (Costco allergy med) and it helps. I was tested years ago and should really get tested again because i feel like there are more allergens out there now! Used to be end of summer only, not it's other seasons. 😡

I have not, but maybe I should.  My sinuses are a mess.

[186momx]

My friend has horrible allergies that lead to sever sinus infections. She finally was referred to an allergies before COVID and found out she is allergic to dust mites. They prescribe some special mattress cover, pillow cover, high powered air purifier, and med cocktails and she is 90% better. She had her first sinus infection in over 18 months last month when out grass and tree pollen skyrocketed.

DD's pedi suggested we think about getting DD tested for allergies. She starts in around March and goes through August and the adult allergy meds don't help much. She also suggest the new Xyal and Flonase and that I can give her one kind before bed and another allergy med in the morning. DD is 10.

[dottyblue]

I went through this 2 years ago after a relocation. Turns out my new state is full of trees/grass/pollen that I have never been exposed to before, so I have no resistance. I was miserable for the first 3 years we lived here.

I ultimately started allergy shots, but before going that route my allergist suggested the following:

1. Get allergy rated dust covers for your mattress, box spring and pillows to contain dust/dust mites. Wash regularly.
2. Wash all bedding in HOT water. Sheets should be changed/washed at least weekly, blankets and comforters at least monthly (I needed biweekly)
3. HEPA rated air purifier for the bedroom, at a minimum. Other rooms that you spend a lot of time in may need one too but the bedroom is the most important.
4. If you suspect you are allergic to pets, they should be kept out of the bedroom.
5. Meds - you may need to try multiples to see what works for you. Costco's Kirkland brand will save you a ton of money - I use their generic Claritin and Flonase. The Claritin is $20 for a full year supply. They have lots of different generics.

[lauralala]

Jun 24, 2021 9:47:26 GMT -5 cattledogkisses said:

Following along as someone who also has a persistent allergy cough (super fun in the covid era). I've taken Claritin and Allegra with so-so results. My problem is that 24 hour allergy meds always seem to wear off in, like, 12 hours.

My understanding is that this is pretty common. DS takes them morning and night at the recommendation of his pediatrician. I have had friends tell me their doctors have them do the same thing.

[carmenere]

I did allergy testing and I currently get allergy shots. I'm 4.5 years in, so I'll be done soon. My seasonal and cat allergies were pretty severe (not anaphylactic, but miserable) and I got frequent sinus infections. The shots have definitely helped a lot, and I haven't had a sinus infection in several years.

I think it's worth calling your insurance to find out what is covered for allergy testing and treatment (specifically serum and injection visits). As for the time, it's a big investment at the beginning (1-2 visits per week) but then tapers down to monthly. Look for a clinic that has hours that fit your schedule. Happy to answer any specific questions you have, feel free to PM me.

[katfco]

Do you take a maintenance allergy medicine or just when you have a flare up? I saw an allergist and they put me on a daily pill and it’s been wonderful. I still have an occasional issue, but I’m a able to have a cat and not sniffle my way through the spring.

[Aloe Vera]

Jun 24, 2021 10:36:31 GMT -5 icedcoffee said:

Jun 24, 2021 10:35:35 GMT -5 keyslover said:

icedcoffee have you seen an ENT for structural issues? I have polyps in my sinuses so things would get stuck and turn into sinus infections. I chose not to have them removed because 1) I was young and stupid 2) procedure sounded gross and 3) they can grow back

I have since aged a couple of decades and #2 & #3 still stand. But, I have since cut out dairy and that has helped me immensely. I also take Flonase and alertec (Costco allergy med) and it helps. I was tested years ago and should really get tested again because i feel like there are more allergens out there now! Used to be end of summer only, not it's other seasons. 😡

I have not, but maybe I should.  My sinuses are a mess.

My dad had been taking Zyrtec for years with no real improvement. The allergist told him to see an ENT. He had polyps and once they were removed, things went back to normal. It took him a long time to see the ENT as he was certain it was allergies despite the allergist telling him it wasn't. SMH.

[abs]

I’d see an allergist for sure but a constant cough like that could be something else. Reflux and asthma both have overlapping symptoms.

FWIW we all have terrible year round allergies.

Xyzal works for me with occasional Benadryl and Flonase added in. DH is the same. DD needs Claritin, Flonase, and Singulair daily or she will cough non stop. An allergist and ENT helped.

[acuore]

I would see an allergist. I have bad terrible allergies for most of my life,
and over the last few years they had been getting worse. I was losing
full days with some regularity to severe attacks, even with daily medication. They did a full panel of tests, and I was allergic to I believe 63 of the 64 substances they checked for. So now I’m doing shots, and although I’m still fairly early in the process, they have already helped noticeably. Even for someone with fewer/less severe allergies, I think knowing what your specific triggers are is very useful, and can also help guide your choice of treatments (avoidance, medications, shots).

[nomad100]

Jun 24, 2021 10:36:31 GMT -5 icedcoffee said:

Jun 24, 2021 10:35:35 GMT -5 keyslover said:

icedcoffee have you seen an ENT for structural issues? I have polyps in my sinuses so things would get stuck and turn into sinus infections. I chose not to have them removed because 1) I was young and stupid 2) procedure sounded gross and 3) they can grow back

I have since aged a couple of decades and #2 & #3 still stand. But, I have since cut out dairy and that has helped me immensely. I also take Flonase and alertec (Costco allergy med) and it helps. I was tested years ago and should really get tested again because i feel like there are more allergens out there now! Used to be end of summer only, not it's other seasons. 😡

I have not, but maybe I should.  My sinuses are a mess.

I just found out I have sinus polyps and haven't had them removed yet.  Waiting until they become an issue with blocking breathing or putting pressure where they shouldn't. And have a deviated septum as well.  

I take Loratadine twice a day, year round, and have a low dose steroid spray that I use once a day which helps with sinus swelling.  I think I need to add something else into the mix because they don't always work the best.  Maybe I will try Xyzal since people have been having success with that.  TBH, days when I can breath out of both nostrils is a gift.  

[mala]

I do agree an allergist would probably be worth it. Depending on what you're allergic to, you may be able to eliminate your allergy with allergy shots (it's a huge time commitment, fyi).

Also vote Xyzal for OTC treatment. I was on it when it was prescription only and it was amazing. I stopped taking it when I got pregnant, but just as I was thinking about going to the doc for a new script for it, it was released OTC and I've been using it ever since. Some times I do need it every day, but sometimes I can get away with taking it every other day. It works so much better than anything else I've tried. Do know that for some people it can make you drowsy, and you should take it at night until you know if it will do that to you. I don't have an issue and take it in themorning.