Do your seasonal allergies seem to be especially bad lately? You’re not alone. Ming Wu, MD is a family medicine doctor with AdventHealth Medical Group Primary Care at Littleton. He commonly treats allergies and has some explanations for why you may be struggling to get relief.
“Allergies are the result of the immune system reacting to harmless substances like pollen as if they were harmful,” said Dr. Wu.
Dr. Wu says the consistent rain in Colorado this spring and significant snowpack are contributing to a particularly bad allergy season.
“More water means more flowers and grass growing, which leads to more pollen, which can contribute to allergies.”
Dr. Wu says city planners also play a role in why you may be dealing with sneezing, a runny nose, and itchy and watery eyes.
“Back in the 1960s, there was a conscious decision by city planners to plant only male trees, because female trees grow fruit, and they didn’t want fruit littering the town. The problem with that is only male trees release pollen, which creates quite an abundance and contributes to allergies.”
Seasonal allergies can be treated with over-the-counter antihistamines, which can help reduce the symptoms.
“I recommend Benadryl, Zyrtec, Claritin, and Allegra are all good options for patients,” said Dr. Wu. “I recommend Benadryl for patients who have debilitating symptoms and need immediate relief. Zyrtec, Claritin, and Allegra are long-acting and best for people with consistent, long-term symptoms. In general, you need to take those daily for about a week to build it up in your system and have a good effect.”
If you are struggling with seasonal allergies, Dr. Wu recommends making an appointment with your primary care provider. You can find a doctor near you and make an appointment here.
Ming Wu, MD, PhD, is a Board-certified family medicine physician in the south Denver area. He specializes in care for diabetes, hypertension, asthma, headaches and joint pain, as well as routine sick care. Dr. Wu speaks English and Chinese. Dr. Wu strives to be inclusive, meeting patients from all walks of life and accepting each one for who they are.
Dr. Wu believes the relationship between the patient and physician is the foundation of medicine and that health is a partnership between both parties. Dr. Wu was called to the medical profession to help improve others’ quality of life and works to provide exceptional whole-person care.
