Allergies are driving me crazy

[ms.yt]

I've always been prone to what I call "sneezing fits" every so often, but lately they have been getting worse. I have seasonal allergies and my doctor has prescribed Rhinocort nose spray and an OTC Zyrtec. Lately, though, my sneezing fits have gotten worse, and it seems like every time we're out at a restaurant by the end of the meal, I'm having to run to the bathroom because I can feel the sneezes coming on. I have to stay in there for about 10 minutes until they subside. It's really becoming a hassle. Has anybody else ever had this problem and if so is there medication that helps more than what I'm already taking? I've told my doctor before that I have the sneezing fits, and he seemed to think what I'm currently taking should be enough. I guess I'm going to have to go back and demand to have something else done.

 

[KristaTX]

Ask your doctor about using an antihistamine nasal spray such as Astelin, Astepro, or Patanase in conjunction with your Rhinocort. Those are antihistamines, while Rhinocort/Nasonex/Nasacort/Flonase/etc. are corticosteroids. Unless something about your situation contraindicates it, they can be used together. If that is not an option or doesn't help, ask about switching your oral antihistamine or possibly adding Singulair to you regimen.

If you haven't seen an allergist and found out exactly what you are allergic to, consider doing that as well. I am a nurse who works in an allergy/asthma clinic, but obviously ask your doctor what he/she recommends for your specific situation. What I mentioned above are what I often see prescribed.

 

[ms.yt]

Thank you very much for the suggestions. I will suggest these to my doctor and hopefully it will give me some relief.

 

[zumbergc]

do you do the saline rinses in your nose, you know the nedi pot. It just helps to clear out the airways. It helps me anyways. Well, worth the little bit of time it takes. Better try that than taking more meds. Meds are fine to take, but avoiding extra drugs is always good.

If it always happens when your out to eat, it could be someone walk into the restraunt w/ a perfume that your allergic to on, then as it dissapates in the air you feel better? who know, try allergy testing.

 

[pirateofthecarolinas]

My DH is allergic to some chemicals/preservatives in biscuits and pancakes. He will start sneezing as well. He knows he can't eat McDonald's biscuits and Cracker Barrel's pancakes. I hope you find some relief soon.

Lori

 

[Christine]

My son has lots of allergies and is currently on every allergy medication known to mankind! Fortunately, he is not having sneezing fits but, really, all the meds aren't enough to work.

His allergist has now suggest immunotherapy (shots) because sometimes the meds aren't enough. It could be the case with you--that the medication simply is not controlling this well.

I don't know where you live, but in many parts of the U.S., the mold count is incredibly high due to all the rain we've had this year. That could be what is affecting you this year and maybe it won't be an issue when it all clears up.

 

[golfgal]

Zyrtec does nothing for our allergies, you might need a different med. Sometimes you can build up an immunity of sorts to different meds. It would be worth it to go to an allergy specialist and get tested to see what you are allergic to so the dr can prescribe an appropriate med.