The end of winter brings the first signs of spring: flowers, grasses and trees blooming. For millions of Canadians it is the beginning of their battle with seasonal allergies, or allergic rhinitis. The Canadian Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Foundation estimates that 20-25% of Canadians have hay fever and with the mild winter we’ve experienced this year in the Okanagan, it may be shaping up to be a tough year for those folks.

A mild winter means that we are in for a dryer and warmer spring and summer, increasing pollen counts and creating a longer allergy season. Those who experience seasonal allergies are well aware of how frustrating their symptoms can be. Runny noses, itchy and watery eyes and sneezing are just some of the unpleasant symptoms that have the greatest impact on sufferers. Being prepared ahead of the explosion of pollens and grasses can be a huge benefit for those prone to allergies.

Allergies happen when your immune system is exposed to an allergen and your body releases histamine from the mast cells. The response leads to swelling of the mucous membranes, an increased production of mucous and tears and an itchy throat. The body attempts to “capture” the allergen and remove it from the system. Why some people are more prone to allergies and over produce histamine is a complicated matter and may be related to genetics, food sensitivities, stress and general immune health.

A survey commissioned by pharmaceutical giant Johnson & Johnson suggests as many as 10 million Canadians may suffer allergy symptoms. The survey also found that 55 per cent of Canadians claim their allergies cut into their productivity and more than a quarter say they’ll limit their outdoor time to prevent the onset of symptoms. Most people experience fatigue and daytime sleepiness, impaired sleep, a decrease in cognitive functioning and an overall sense of unhappiness.

Treatment options for allergic rhinitis often include reducing your exposure.  Certain times of the day, especially in the early morning hours, have the highest pollen counts. Checking the pollen counts on a weather station or website may help to decrease your exposures. Keeping your home clean by washing sheets and towels frequently will help to keep the mucous membranes less irritated. Using a good quality HEPA filter vacuum is also very beneficial.

Pharmacological medications are plentiful but many people dislike the side effects or the dependency they feel having to take something to control a symptom for half of the year. There are numerous clinical studies showing that natural medicines such as Vitamin C, quercetin, butterbur and other nutrients can be as effective as antihistamines but do not create the side effects. Another treatment option that many allergy sufferers have tried is immunotherapy, or allergy shots.

Allergy shots can be painful and require many trips to a physician’s office to be administered. For those who fear needles or for children, alternatives are available.  In other parts of the world, especially in Europe, sublingual (under the tongue) treatment has become increasingly commonplace. In 1998, the World Health Organization referred to it as a “viable alternative” to injection therapy. We currently treat airborne allergens with the sublingual drops and have high rates of success. It is a gradual desensitization that results in a patient being able to handle pollen, dust, grass or animal dander and not require allergy medications. Many people have been thrilled to realize that they don’t need to get rid of their cat for the sake of their partner’s allergies!

Finding safe, effective, and individualized ways to treat allergies allows people to enjoy the spring and summer weather and to get out and celebrate the fantastic outdoor activities we have here in the Okanagan.

Dr. Shelby Entner, ND and Dr. Chris Spooner, ND offer comprehensive natural healthcare to individuals and families in the Okanagan.  They utilize safe and effective natural treatments as well as innovative testing for conditions such as allergies, ADD, digestive concerns, chronic pain and hormonal balancing.  With over 20 years of combined experience, Okanagan Natural Medicine is the first choice for individualized and natural medicine for families in the Okanagan.