ROME, Ga., April 8, 2025 – If you find yourself sneezing, scratching and dealing with watery eyes, you are not alone. It is still allergy season in northwest Georgia. Grass and tree pollen is common throughout most of the summer.
Symptoms that indicate possible allergy problems include:
- sneezing
- congestion
- runny nose
- red, watery or itchy eyes
Limiting outdoor time during the peak of pollen season can bring relief to some people. But for those who are also allergic to pet dander and dust, going indoors isn't necessarily the answer.
“Taking over-the-counter allergy medicines can provide relief for many patients," said Michael Land, M.D., with Atrium Health Floyd Primary Care Family Medicine in Adairsville, “although not everyone reacts positively to them.
“Also, if you have high blood pressure, make sure you read the labels because some products can raise your blood pressure," Land added. “I also suggest trying nasal saline solutions. Those can be taken multiple times a day without almost any negative side effects."
Land also recommends controlling indoor allergens like pet dander, mold and dust by vacuuming or sweeping often, using an air purifier or buy a special filter for your central air-conditioning system.
He said there are also many effective prescription medications that can help.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta offers the following tips:
- Check pollen forecasts, and limit outdoor time during elevated levels.
- Do not touch your eyes after being outdoors and wash your hands before touching your eyes indoors.
- Shower after being outside to remove pollen from your skin and hair.
- Change your clothes after being outdoors.
- Keep windows closed during pollen season.
Atrium Health Floyd Primary Care Family Medicine in Adairsville, 6000 Joe Frank Harris Pkwy NW, is open Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday from 8 to noon. Call 770-773-9448 to make an appointment.