I have suffered from allergies for most of my life. My worst month for allergies was around May and the off and on for the balance of the year. Early in my life it was tolerable and just lived with it. Now later in my life I have I am suffering more and more with running nose and itchy throat that turns into a coughing jag. Drinking water really helps but as soon as my throat dries it comes back.
I notice that when my nose plugs up I start breathing threw my mouth and I know that is drying out my throat. I just moved to Nevada from the bay area and I noticed that the air here is very dry and drying out my throat even more.
In November of 2007 I added two siamese kittens to my household and my symptoms are getting worse. I have tried over the counter medications but hard to figure if any of them work. I need help as I don't want to get rid of my cats.
Any suggestions
Thanks Ace
Hi Ace,
I just got a cat too!! And I have allergies. A couple suggestions and then I will give you some links for information.
First of all, when you have an allergy to animal dander and you have a cat (or two) you need to take precautions like vacuuming more often, dusting, making sure you empty the cat pans regularly. The more you help the cats remain clean, the easier it will be for you.
Also to help with the dryness of your environment, it would pay you to get a humidifier. I use one year round, but you should at least have one in your bedroom for the night time. If you are living in a dry area, the heat of the winter makes the house even dryer. There are some great humidifiers that use lifetime filters that do not need to be replaced.
Ok, here are some links for information. First off, the allergy database can give you information that will help you ask questions of your doctor to help you manage your allergies. You might be having symptoms that are not related to the allergies even though you think they should be. Did you know that acid reflux can give you symptoms like allergies? Stuffy nose, post nasal drip, scratchy itchy throat and sinusitis. You can read more about that here.
This information will help you ask the right questions of your doctor when you speak to him/her.
Stay in touch and let us know how you are doing!
Vicki M