May is Allergy and Sinus Month and here in Central Florida we have our fair share of irritants that can cause sinus and allergy issues. In fact, the top five allergens in Central Florida include:

Pollen

Of all the summer allergens, pollen is the most common and affects the most people. With plants in full bloom, the pollen count can be a burden to allergy sufferers.

Mold

The humid summer air is the perfect breeding ground for mold. Mold can to trigger asthma, in addition to allergies.

Stings

During summer, more insects are out visiting your weekend cookout and admiring your garden. Insect stings are a well-known summer allergy trigger that can lead to a severe reaction known as anaphylaxis.

Sunscreen

Wearing sunscreen while spending time outdoors is especially important when blocking the sun’s harmful UV rays. However, some people are allergic to ingredients in popular sunscreens, so be sure also to avoid scented lotions or lotions that contain parabens (chemicals used as preservatives).

Seasonal Fruit

Food allergies can happen at any time of the year. However, some allergy sufferers who experience pollen allergies can also suffer from a cross-reaction to fruits they eat. This includes certain foods, such as melons, apples and celery.

Achieving Summer Allergy Relief at Home

If you are looking to treat your allergy and sinus symptoms at home, there are a few helpful habits you can implement to keep allergies and sinus issues at bay. These include:

• Practicing good hygiene
• Using a humidifier to maintain moisture in the sinuses
• Avoiding irritants
• Rinsing with warm salt water or a saline solution to keep sinuses clean
• Staying hydrated to keep mucus in your sinuses flowing properly

Treatment Options for More Severe Allergy and Sinus Issues

Unfortunately, not all allergy and sinus issues can be treated at home.

Balloon sinuplasty is one of the newest, least invasive alternatives to traditional sinus surgery to open blocked sinus passageways and restore normal sinus drainage for patients suffering from chronic sinusitis and have not found relief from prescribed antibiotics.

Benefits of balloon sinuplasty:

• Minimally invasive
• Does not require the removal or cutting of nasal bone or tissue
• Faster recovery times
• Less discomfort compared to traditional sinus surgery

Hao “Mimi” Tran, M.D., at The Ear, Nose, Throat & Plastic Surgery Associates performs balloon sinuplasty to provide relief for patients suffering from acute and chronic sinusitis.

“It’s been a blessing to me. For the first time in five years, my nose runs and I sneeze, ” says John, a recent balloon sinuplasty patient of Dr. Tran.

Still suffering from allergies? We can help. Call (407)644-4883 or click here to schedule an appointment.