Ahh these smells

Hi i have been feeling like **** for the past few months and wanted to know if anyone felt similar before with strong smells. I believe I have  gerd induced asthma. I have to cut grass with a mask on because the smell overwhelmed me. I thougth not a big deal but now I pretty much have to ride with the windows up because the smell of dirt/dust/cornfields, roadwork(paving), strong smells etc. bothers me. Luckily I have an inhaler left over from earlier this year and it helps. My nose is always stuffy, get watery eyes not any sneezing really. I got prescribed some nasonex which seems crappy. Just ***** because my doctor probably think ima hypocondriac because im a 23 y/o male who looks good on the outside.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

It seems that you are having hay fever or allergic rhinitis.

Allergic rhinitis is a collection of symptoms, predominantly in the nose and eyes, caused by airborne particles of dust, dander, or plant pollens in people who are allergic to these substances.

When a person with allergies breathes in an allergen such as pollen or dust, antibodies are produced. When the antibodies are stimulated by pollen and dust, histamine and other chemicals are released. This causes itching, swelling, and mucus production.

Pls contact an allergic specialist and get skin tests like skin ***** test done. In this a small amount of allergen is introduced into the skin of the forearm and the reaction of the skin is noted. If there is any redness then that person is allergic to the allergen introduced.

You can also get blood tests like RAST done.

You can take OTC antihistaminics like benadryl or Claritin. Longer-acting antihistamines are available by prescription. They cause less drowsiness and can work just as well. These medications include fexofenadine (Allegra), and cetirizine (Zyrtec).

You can also use nasal corticosteroid sprays like nasocort or flonase. Decongestants may also be helpful in reducing symptoms such as nasal congestion, but they should not be used for long periods. Cromolyn sodium is a nasal spray (Nasalcrom) for treating hay fever. Eye drop versions of cromolyn sodium and antihistamines are available for itchy, bloodshot eyes.

If the symptoms are intense then you can go in for immunotherapy.

Pls get yourself thoroughly checked by an immunologist and decide the mode of treatment.

Take care and do keep us posted on how you are doing.