Allergies may need more than OTC

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — With pollen levels at record levels, allergy sufferers are having an especially difficult time this season. Doctors say a cold winter combined with plants blooming at the same time and little rain have led to an increase in pollen. Also, allergies can happen at an older age, so you may suddenly be struck with allergies for the first time this season.

Dr. Gloria Vreeland says over-the-counter medicine like Claritin and Zyrtec or their generic version can be effective, but you could need more.

“Usually that’s not enough,” Vreeland said. “Especially if you’ve got the itchy watery eyes, a lot of times using a nasal spray is much more effective, and that’s something you need to see a doctor and get a prescription for.”

Vreeland and other doctors have opened offices in the New Hanover Regional Medical Center Health & Diagnostics Brunswick Forest facility in Leland. There will be an open house there Saturday, April 24, from 1 to 4 p.m. For more information, go to http://www.nhrmc.org/brunswickforest or call (910) 342-3400.