But it doesn't have to be that way. A growing arsenal of allergy medications can now ward off much of this seasonal discomfort, typically with few side effects. Add in common sense to avoid the worst that outdoor allergens have to offer and just about anyone can breathe a deep sigh of relief. Despite professional recommendations and a continuous barrage of allergy drug ads, experts say that many patients needlessly wheeze their way through the change of seasons, often with little faith that anything can be done. A recent survey, for example, found that only half of allergy sufferers believe effective treatments are available.
Doctors are more optimistic.
Oftentimes, it's a matter of not going far enough with treatment. Nothing to Sneeze At Part of the problem may be the medications themselves. Only half of allergy sufferers believe effective treatments are available. This does not mean that patients should give up on treating their allergies, Dr. Storms says, especially with the newer agents. Indeed, years of hopeless suffering may have left many to think that allergies are just another rite of spring, like the start of baseball season or cleaning out the garage.