You At Your Best

Spring brings warmer weather, fresh blooms and green grass and trees, but it can be misery for allergy sufferers. Allergic rhinitis is the fifth most common disease in the U.S., according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology, and is the most common chronic disease in children. People can be allergic to many things, such as dust mites and animal dander. This time of year, mold and pollen from trees and grass are common culprits. "When your body encounters something you're allergic to, such as pollen, your body reacts with sneezing, coughing and nasal drainage," explains Physician Assistant F. Levi Hudson at Har-Ber Family Clinic. Many people turn to over the counter medications. "Some patients have success with over the counter antihistamines or nasal steroids," says Hudson. "If you don't get relief and are still bothered by symptoms, it's time to see a primary care provider. First, we'll determine whether you're suffering from allergies or a virus like a cold." If you have a cough, low grade fever, and generally feel sick or run down, it's likely a cold. Allergy symptoms typically include itchy eyes and nose, a scratchy throat, and puffy, red or watery eyes. A cold will run its course while allergy symptoms persist. "Once we've determined you have allergies, we can then guide you to the most appropriate treatment for your symptoms. Taking cold medicine for allergies won't be effective as they generally have inferior antihistamines included in them plus other active ingredients that will not be specifically for your allergy symptoms" Hudson explains. "You also need to let your doctor know if you have other health conditions like high blood pressure, heart or kidney disease, and diabetes. Not all over the counter medicines are safe to take if you have these conditions." Allergy treatments may include prescribed nasal steroid sprays to reduce inflammation in addition to over the counter antihistamines and decongestants. If you're experiencing itchy, watery eyes, your provider may prescribe eye drops specifically for allergies. If treatment is not successful or symptoms are severe, your doctor may refer you to an allergist. "An allergist can do tests to find out exactly what's triggering your symptoms," Hudson says. "You may need allergy shots which can, overtime, desensitize your body to what's triggering the reaction." Hudson says don't ignore allergy symptoms. "Allergies can impact your quality of life and, if symptoms go unchecked, they can lead to sinus infections, headaches and ear infections. Contact your primary care provider so they can find a treatment that works for you and you can get back to living your life." HAR-BER FAMILY CLINIC PhysicianPROFILE: When to see a primary care provider for your allergies SPONSOR CONTENT Dr. Steven Spencer and F. Levi Hudson, PA-C provide high-quality, comprehensive medical care for all ages at Washington Regional's Har-Ber Family Clinic in Springdale. Services at Har-Ber Family Clinic include preventive care, physicals, treatment of acute illnesses and injuries, and treatment and management of chronic conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. Dr. Steven Spencer earned his medical degree from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. He then completed a residency in family medicine at the University of Alabama/Huntsville. Dr. Spencer has experience in rural health care, emergency medicine and private practice. F. Levi Hudson, PA-C, earned a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Harding University and holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of Arkansas. He is certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician's Assistants and was voted Physician Assistant of the Year for 2018 for the Washington Regional Clinic System. Appointments at Har-Ber Family Clinic, located inside the Springdale Center for Health at 803 Founders Park Dr. E., Suite 206 in Springdale, are available by calling 479.463.2333. The clinic is open Monday – Thursday 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. and Friday 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. More information is available at wregional.com. Primary care for all ages at Har-Ber Family Clinic Dr. Steven Spencer F. Levi Hudson Allergies can impact your quality of life and, if symptoms go unchecked, they can lead to sinus infections, headaches and ear infections. SATURDAY, MARCH 28, 2020 | APRIL - ALLERGIES & ASTHMA NWADG.COM/YOUATYOURBEST | YOU AT YOUR BEST | 9

• Cover