I have a lot of problems with sneezing and a runny nose. I have had what seems like a cold on and off since Jan. I even had laryngitis which lasted almost two weeks. I had a really bad case of sneezing and runny nose lasta week which lasted two days, then it came back this week, but not quite as bad. Is this how allergies act? I am currently taking the drug SEMPREX which doesn't work when I get a real bad case. Could this be a sinus problem and what can be done for help?
Answer -------------
Sneezing and watery nasal dripping are common symptoms of allergy. Laryngitis could also be at least in part related to allergy. Allergic symptoms persist because there is continued exposure to the offending agent responsible for the allergic reaction. In the winter months, common allergens are dust and mold. Animal dander could also be a cause of allergic symptoms in winter months.
The best method of treatment for allergies is avoidance. This of course requires an identification of the offending allergen. Not all allergens can be easily avoided however. Dust and mold are ubiquitous and may be present despite extensive manipulation of the environment. Therefore desensitization and/or drug therapy may be necessary to treat allergic reactions that cause significant symptoms.
Antihistamines are the most common medication prescribed for allergies. Semprex (acrivastine) is a relatively new antihistamine described as a "non-sedating". Antihistamines act to antagonize the action of histamine, which is one of many mediators of the allergic response. Different antihistamines may vary in their efficacy and side effects in an individual patient. Similarly, two allergic patients may respond differently to the same antihistamine. When allergic symptoms are severe, antihistamines are frequently ineffective alone. Other medications that might be necessary include inhaled nasal steroids, systemic steroids, or anti-cholinergic medications. Many antihistamines have as a side-effect sedation, although many newer antihistamines are touted as "non-sedating" or "low-sedating".
Desensitization (immunotherapy) is a method to stimulate the body's immune defenses to form blocking-antibodies for the allergens. This type of therapy involves comprehensive investigation and identification of the offending allergens by means of skin-testing and/or blood tests known as RAST. Once the allergens are identified, extracts are prepared and injected just beneath the skin in gradually increasing doses over time in order to stimulate the immune system's production of the antibodies.
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Steve Dankle, MD
Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery
Milwaukee, Wis
NOTICE: OFCN is not engaged in the rendering of professional medical services. The information contained on this system or any other OFCN system should not supplant individual professional consultation. It is offered exclusively as a community education service. Advice on individual problems must be obtained directly from a professional.
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