Have Your Spring Allergies Already Arrived?

Dr. Fisher examines a patient.

It seems early for seasonal allergies to have arrived, especially with the persistence of the cool weather. But the daily pollen count is on the rise and some experts are predicting a rough allergy season, particularly in Northeastern states like Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware.

So, if you’ve already felt that telltale tickle at the back of your throat or found yourself sneezing uncontrollably, Jefferson ear, nose and throat doctor Kyle Fisher, MD, has some tips for you:

1. Know the pollen count in your area, so that you can act before the pollen causes allergic reactions.  There are many online resources to check levels in your region.
2. When pollen counts are high stay indoors as much as possible with the windows closed. Don’t drive with the windows open.
3. Plan your outdoor time wisely. Pollen counts tend to be higher in the morning than in the afternoon, so if you like outdoor sports activities, try to do them later in the day.
4. When you come home at the end of the day, hop in the shower, rinse your hair and change your clothes. Pollen will settle on your clothes and hair and it is helpful to try to reduce the amount of pollen you are bringing into your home, and especially into your bed.
5. Learn the specific pollens you are allergic to and start your medications before those pollen counts get too high. It is more difficult to reverse symptoms that are already in full force -than preventing severe symptoms in the first place.

Dr. Fisher sees people with allergies at our convenient Jefferson at the Navy Yard offices.

“I have interest in diagnosing and treating environmental allergies affecting the ear, nose, and throat,” he says.

And while most of us associate allergy with “hay fever” symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, stuffiness, and itchy eyes, the condition is also related to chronic ear fluid and infections, ear pain/fullness/pressure, nasal polyps, sinus infections, throat mucous, and voice changes.

“Those symptoms, however, can be caused by other conditions as well,” notes Dr. Fisher. “That’s why it’s important to have a comprehensive history and physical exam by a physician.”

Moreover, if your allergy is environmental, testing can be performed to help identify your triggers. so Then you can limit your exposure to the offending allergens, and your physician can prescribe medication to control your symptoms, Dr. Fisher says.

“If this does not help, allergy shots or drops may be recommended,” he adds. “Because each patient is unique, my goal is to help find the best treatment approach for you that helps relieve your symptoms.”

Jefferson at the Navy Yard

The quality care for which Jefferson University Hospitals are recognized is now conveniently available in a four-story “green” facility located at the Philadelphia Navy Yard, just past the sports complex. Jefferson at the Navy Yard is easy to access from South New Jersey locations as well as Delaware and Chester Counties in Pennsylvania.

In addition to the medical suites, Jefferson at the Navy Yard  has a multi-specialty Surgical Center and is right across the street from Healthmark — one of our long-time partners in work-related health matters including occupational health and workers’ compensation.