Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/138116
Allergies are here. Runny nose, itchy and watery eyes and nasal congestion. For many, these are signs that allergy season is here. Dr. William Micka, an allergy and immunology physician, explains that allergies can be classified into seasonal and year-round. "Seasonal allergies occur at the peak of allergy Dr. William Micka season, often in the spring or fall. They can also occur in the summertime depending on what you are allergic to," he says. Allergies and asthma? Dr. Micka explains that year-round allergies are often caused by dust mites, pet dander or mold. To treat allergies, the first step is to identify your allergic triggers and take steps to avoid these triggers, says Dr. Micka. Dr. Minh-Thu Le One way to find out if you have allergies is through a skin test. Your skin is exposed to small amounts of environmental allergens. An allergy and immunology physician, such as Dr. Micka or Dr. Minh-Thu Le, interprets the results. The next step is medication, such as nasal sprays or antihistamines. If these are not effective, the next treatment is allergy immunotherapy, which involves regularly prescribed shots. Dr. Micka's advice is to be proactive with treating allergies, especially in late winter and early spring, right before the spring pollen season peaks in April. For many people, allergies can trigger asthma. Dr. Micka says these often go hand-in-hand. Asthmatic symptoms include wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath. "A lot of time if you treat the allergies, you can improve asthma control, too," he says. Listen and learn Dr. Minh-Thu Le explains allergies at coxhealth.com (search "allergies"). "When your allergy symptoms are lasting for several weeks and resulting in missed work or school and affecting your quality of life, we recommend an allergy evaluation," states Dr. Micka, who says a person can develop allergies at any age. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Micka or Dr. Le, call 417/875-3742. Flowers, gifts and more Please feel welcome to visit any of our CoxHealth gift shops. We have the perfect gifts for a new mom and baby, flowers for a loved one, as well as snacks, cards, magazines and personal items. Proceeds from purchases go toward scholarships, community education and other CoxHealth programs and equipment. Give your best – volunteer! Share your time and talent to help others, meet new people and lower your stress level. Visit coxhealth.com/volunteer. Your experts, friends, neighbors. 7