Allergies- What’s Going Around, Week Of April 17
The past week’s combination of wind and blooming flowers has set allergies in motion in Palm Springs. Many of Dr. Michael Jardula’s patients are suffering from allergy symptoms and sinus infections. Dr. Frank Arian suggests staying indoors if it’s windy, or wearing a mask if you’re outside. “It’s springtime in the desert,” he says. “Blooming is quick and intense as foliage tries to move through its life cycle before the intense, withering heat. Also the wind is increased, stirring up the allergens. It’s also dusty spring cleaning time.” Without medication, be prepared for an itchy nose, clear, runny mucus and a mild cough. Diarrhea is also going around this part of town. It goes away on its own in about 48 to 72 hours without treatment other than some Immodium. Limit the total number of antibiotic courses whenever possible, drink bottled water when abroad, and watch out for ice cubes in your cocktails. “Consult your doctor to be evaluated for possible blood work to check for electrolyte abnormality, dehydration or for stool workup,” Dr. Arian adds.
Allergies are also the top concern in Rancho Mirage. Dr. Seema Bir reports allergies can easily progress to sinus problems, so Bir suggests trying over-the-counter medication to keep things in check. Pediatrician Dr. Arturo Quintanilla says spring break may have brought on some ear infections in children in Rancho Mirage. Most are related to upper respiratory infections, and are not “swimmer’s ear.” So check with your child’s doctor if your little one starts complaining of an earache. Many patients are coming in to see Dr. Sara Azar for treatment of allergies and sinusitis. They described runny nose, sinus congestion, post nasal drip and a cough. Distinguishing between allergies and infection is important. “Simple allergies are relieved with a combination of antihistamines, saline nasal irrigation and prescription nasal sprays,” she explains. “A true sinus infection requires a course of antibiotics.” Many patients are also coming in with a “cold,” which becomes a severe bronchitis. They have fever and a persistent, productive cough that does not go away with over-the-counter medications.
In La Quinta, Dr. Erica Ruiz is treating gastroenteritis. This nausea and vomiting lasts less than 48 hours for most people. The flu is also going around. This starts in the head then goes to the belly. The cold symptoms progress into a fever, which then turns to nausea, vomiting and diarrhea that lasts for about a week. “Most of the time symptoms can be treated with over-the-counter medications but extreme cases need to be seen by a physician,” says Ruiz.
In Indio, Dr. Arthur Davis is seeing plenty of bronchitis. This is an inflammation of the large air passage in the lungs. Symptoms include a dry cough that develops into a cough with mucus, wheezing, fatigue, chest tightness and a mild fever. He says that as frustrating as it is, patients can battle bronchitis and the awful cough for quite a few weeks before the symptoms subside. Over-the-counter medication can help pain, fever and cough. A humidifier can help break up mucus. Patients can also drink lots of fluids, take extra vitamin C and D and take cough drops to help with the nagging cough.
Since the Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control found a mosquito infected with West Nile virus in Oasis, Dr. Randolph Gibbs wants to remind everyone that symptoms of the virus include fever, muscle weakness and a rash. “This is a little early in the season which is most prevalent in July/August,” he reports. Prevention is key…and that includes using repellants, Dr. Gibbs says.
Watch “What’s Going Around” every Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. and every Wednesday at 6:45 a.m. on Local 2.
