Seasonal allergies are not fun. They’re not always a cause for concern, however. How do you know if it’s important for your dad to see a doctor for his allergies? Here are some tips.

How Long Have the Symptoms Lasted?

Generally, a doctor won’t ask to see someone with allergies unless it’s interfering with normal routines. It’s different in the elderly, however. One area of concern is the lack of moisture in an aging adult’s nose. Keeping the sinuses moistened can be an important consideration.  If your dad’s runny nose, cough, sneezing, or watery eyes are making it hard for him to sleep, keep up with household chores, or drive the car, schedule an appointment with his doctor.

Is He on Prescription Medications?

If your dad is on prescription medications, he may need to see the doctor to discuss safe allergy medications. Antihistamines can interact with certain medications and increase drowsiness or dizziness. If your dad is on medications for diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, or liver disease, don’t allow him to use over-the-counter remedies until you’ve talked to his doctor.

Are Over-the-Counter Medications Helping?

If he’s okay to use over-the-counter medications, try them for a few days. Do they help relieve his symptoms? If not, you may need to visit the doctor and try a prescription medication for allergies.

Are Other Complications Arising?

If your dad has sinus pain or a sore throat, a bacterial infection from the mucus may be to blame. If this is the case, antibiotics may be necessary. Only a doctor can test cultures to see if a bacterial infection is present. Headaches may go hand in hand with your dad’s allergies, so you’ll want to address that, especially if the headaches are making it hard for him to maintain daily tasks. Blocked ears can cause problems with balance. It’s important to keep your dad from trying to climb ladders or offer support when walking up and down stairs.

Talk a senior care agency about the benefit of having a caregiver spend time with your dad each week. In addition to keeping track of when your dad last took his medicines, a caregiver can help prepare meals, drive your dad to appointments, and be there for companionship. Senior care professionals can come daily, weekly, or at any schedule you feel is best for your dad.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring senior care in Mauldin, SC, contact Heart of the Carolinas Home Care at 864-991-3116.  Providing Home Care Services in Greenville, Simpsonville, Greer, Anderson, Spartanburg, Mauldin, Seneca, Laurens, Charleston, Columbia and the surrounding areas.

Sources:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2794852/

http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/doctor-indoor-allergies

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Edward Harrison

Founder at Heart of the Carolinas

Edward Harrison founded the Heart of the Carolinas Homecare in 2007 when he saw there was a need for caregivers that provide non-medical home care services, at a price that most people could afford. It was standard in the industry to require hourly minimums and it was common to be assigned a caregiver, not matched with one based on your individual personal needs. Edward understood that to make a successful relationship between caregiver and client, skills were not enough, personality and compatibility plays as much a role as do skills.

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