Wishing you a Merry Christmas from Dr. McEldowney and the Staff at Allergy and Asthma Care of Blakeney. Our office will be closed today and tomorrow. We will re-open on Monday.

If you suffer from allergies or asthma, a few tweaks to your routine – some big, some small – could make a difference in dialing down the wheezing, sneezing, and allergic reactions in the New Year. The following are five New Year’s resolutions that those who suffer from allergies or asthma should consider:

Charlotte, NC – While many people eagerly anticipate spring to see the last of cold weather and snow drifts, others dread the sneezing, wheezing, itchy eyes and coughing spring allergies bring. They understand the arrival of pollen – whether counts are high or low - means the onset of their misery. But there are ways to prevail in the fight to breathe easy and remain relatively sneeze-free.

People focus on the highs and lows of pollen counts. What they don’t realize is that a high total pollen count doesn’t always mean you will have allergy symptoms. The pollen from the plant you are allergic to may not be high. The key is to know what you’re allergic to, and how to treat your particular symptoms.

More people than ever suffer from allergies of all kinds. Allergies are the 6th leading cause of chronic illness in the U.S. with an annual cost in excess of $18 billion. One in five Americans suffer from allergies each year. And though spring can bring lots of sneezing and sniffles, it’s important to remember that there are tools at your disposal – whether your suffering is mild or severe.

Following are some factors to keep in mind as you work to keep your spring allergy symptoms under control: