Recent rains causing an increase in allergy problems

July 10, 2007

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Updated: Jul 9, 2007 7:04pm

KCEN-TV Temple Mon, 09 Jul 2007 5:09 PM PDT

Waco,*Tx.

All of the rain we've had in the last few weeks has caused more than

flooding.

Doctors said they're seeing an increase in the number of patients

suffering from grass and mold allergies.

Sure tons of rain means green lawns, but it also means plenty of

overgrown grass and weeds, and even mold.

For allergy sufferers like Gerik, summer should be a break

from allergy peaks in spring and fall, but with all this moisture,

this year is different.

According to doctors, grass and mold counts are through the roof.

" Once the sun comes out, the mold comes out and it kind of makes

things a little hard.

I have to come get my shots, " Gerik said. 's not alone, at

Waco's Allergy and Asthma Center; patients are coming in by the

handful with more than the sniffles.

This summer doctors are seeing bronchitis, asthma attacks,

respiratory infections and more.

It's unusual for summer, and sometimes preventable.

" They can try over the counter medicines. There are quite a few over

the counter without prescriptions. Claritin for example.

But if there is a lot of coughing, if they can't concentrate or

normally function, call your primary care doctor, " said Dr. N.J.

Amar with Allergy Asthma Center.

Doctors also said timing outdoors is key. " At dawn and at dusk is

when pollen counts are high. If you're working in the yard, wear a

mask.

If they take preventative measures before hand like taking an

antihistamine before they go out that would help a lot, "

Amar added.

Doctors said indoor animals that shed can also add to the problem.

They said don't kick them out of the house, but it may help if they

don't sleep in the same room with you.

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