It's runny eyes and nose season

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Tory Groschick
  • 2nd Bomb Wing Public Affairs
Barksdale Air Force Base, La --  Winter has come to an end, and Team Barksdale has many things to look forward to: warm weather, pools opening and more outdoor activities.

With all of the good that comes with spring, there is bound to be at least one flaw. Allergies.

According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America website, allergies impact one-in-five Americans.

"Though all four seasons could be considered allergy season, spring is the worst with all the trees blooming after winter," said Tech. Sgt. Jennifer Baird, NCO in-charge of immunizations. "Some people don't have allergies and never get them; genetics don't play a part. The first time you're exposed to something you won't have an allergic reaction, but the second time, your body might decide it doesn't like it."

Allergies are caused when pollen is inhaled and an allergic reaction occurs. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information website, when the immune system recognizes an allergen it releases chemicals, such as histamine, to fight off the allergen. This process causes allergy symptoms.

"The allergic reaction can include a runny nose, watery eyes, itchy throat and sneezing," said Baird. "Symptoms similar to a cold, but more agitating."

When allergies are persistent with certain individuals, tests are often run to find out what type of pollen they're allergic to.

"Pollen, or tree allergies, are the most common," said Baird. "They often get worse in the spring. The summer season brings more allergies for grass and the fall is bad for weeds. People still have allergies in the winter as well, it just depends on what part of the country they live in."

Here, the Oak trees have the majority of active pollen. Since Barksdale currently has limited allergy treatments and no allergy technicians, physicians recommend patients to off-base clinics for more severe allergies.

"One treatment includes allergy shots that can be given by allergy technicians," said Baird. "Other treatments may include nasal sprays and medication."

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 456-6555, and make an appointment with your primary care manager.