Springtime and allergies

It's an annual rite of spring, allergies. Doctors say one in every five people suffer from allergies. <br><br>That means more than half a million Oklahomans are probably reaching for another tissue

Tuesday, March 23rd 2004, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

It's an annual rite of spring, allergies. Doctors say one in every five people suffer from allergies.

That means more than half a million Oklahomans are probably reaching for another tissue about now. Seasonal allergies cost Americans more than $4.5-billion in medical care every year.

Springtime in Oklahoma certainly adds its share of sniffles. In fact, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, this week's pollen forecast in Tulsa is looking pretty potent.

Dr Charles Heinberg, Ear, Nose and Throat Specialist: "I think allergies are a big problem pretty much everywhere, but I see an awful lot of patients who tell me they were perfectly fine until they moved to Oklahoma."

Dr Heinberg says the best way to treat your symptoms is to avoid the cause. If you're basically allergic to the outdoors, over the counter medications is a good next step. Otherwise see your doctor for an allergy test and treatment plan.