East Paradise

The increase in rain fall in this season going from fall to spring has changed the blooming pattern of several types of plants. These plants on UNLV’s campus have caused allergy season to start early.
“Because of the damp and rainy climate there has been an increase of at least 10-20 percent of students and faculty members this season coming into the Rebel Wellness Center having allergy problems from pollen because of the rapid climate change,” said Senior Pharmacist Anne Hartig.
The three trees that have recently been blooming on campus are the apple blossoms, cherry blossoms, and mulberry trees which usually do not blossom until mid-spring.
A common allergic reaction to pollen is a combination of runny nose, sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy, and dry throat.
Unfortunately, some people are highly allergic to pollen and the rapid blooming of numerous highly pollinated plants can cause hospitalization or staying home for days to avoid contact with these high doses of pollen.
“I was out of work and school for two days last week (the first week of March) because my allergies. I am allergic to most grass, weeds and trees,” said UNLV Junior Kristena Atwood.
Senior Pharmacist Hartig recommends that before you reach the 1st stages of a sinus infection to take Claritin which is an anti-histamine that is non-drowsy.
For more power in drying out your sinus’s Hartig recommends Claritin D which is a more efficient medication.
“It does not matter which allergy relief medication you take brand name or generic do not matter either Allegra which a prescription is necessary or Claritin D which only requires a signature and a Nevada State Drivers license,” said Hartig.
Both Allegra and Claritin D are for the relief of symptoms associated with seasonal allergies.
For those who prefer the all natural route, it is recommended to use a saline wash once a day at the end of the day to remove any pollen trapped in your nasal passage.
“A Saline solution is the closest remedy to natural bodily fluids. Some people use pots or squeeze bottles once again it does not matter what brand as long as it works for the individual,” said Hartig.
People who are on pain medications the all natural route is highly recommended since “most nasal decongestions cause high blood pressure and could slow their reaction time,” said Hartig.

Contact Information
Anne Hartig – Senior Pharmacist at the UNLV Rebel Wellness Center
1-895-0278
Kristena Atwood- UNLV Junior and CSUN/UNLV Pre-School Teacher Assistant
1-702-895-3779

-Morgan Kolber