By Henry J. Fishman, M.D.
ConsumerAffairs.com
August 19, 2005
It's that time again. Across the country, ragweed is blossoming in our fields and along the roadsides, filling the air with pollen -- enough to make one out of five Americans miserable, with itchy eyes, stuffy nose and sneezing.
Pollen can trigger sinus problems and asthma, leading to cough, shortness of breath and wheezing. And with no rest in sight for the allergy-weary, weeds and mold will be along right behind the ragweed.
What to do?
• Stay indoors in air conditioning on hot, muggy days.
• Exercise indoors or, if you must go outside for your workout, do it in the early morning or late evening. Shower when you're done.
• See your doctor and get on an individualized allergy program.
• For mild symptoms, try over-the-counter allergy products.
For the really miserable, there's always allergy shots ... or an ocean cruise.
