Austin consistently ranks in the top five worst U.S. cities for seasonal respiratory allergies (hay fever, cedar fever, etc.). If you have allergies, you'll probably be affected by them while you're at UT.
Most respiratory allergies are just major annoyances that can make you feel lousy. However, sometimes they can lead to bacterial infections in your sinuses, ears, or lungs, which may require antibiotics. In people with asthma, allergies can lead to serious symptoms. Allergies can also aggrevate asthma symptoms.
Respiratory allergies are caused by an overreaction of the immune system to a trigger that causes inflammation and/or swelling of tissues in the nose, eyes, ears, sinuses, throat, larynx ("voice box"), and airways. Common triggers are pollens, dust, cigarette smoke, air pollutants, and animal dander.
In spite of using self-care measures, your allergy symptoms continue and significantly interfere with your ability to work, study, or enjoy leisure activities. Prescription medication and/or allergy shots may be options for you. UT students who have started an allergy desensitization program (allergy shots) with an allergist can have their injections administered in the UHS Allergy, Immunization, and Travel Clinic. See helpful links above.
Antihistamine:
Cetirizine (example: Zyrtec®)
Fexofenadine (example: Allegra®)
Loratadine (example: Claritin®)
Sedating - Diphenhydramine (example: Benadryl®)
Eye Drops:
Antihistamine (example: Zaditor®)
Anithistamine/Decongestant (example: Naphcon A®)
Call the UHS Appointments line at (512) 471-4955 during regular hours if:
Call the UHS Nurse Advice Line at (512) 475-6877 (NURS) if you experience any of the following:
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Monday - Friday, 8am to 5pm by appointment |
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(512) 471-4955 |
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Email UHS |
University Health Services is committed to providing high-quality care to patients of all ages, races, ethnicities, physical abilities or attributes, religions, sexual orientations, or gender identities/expression.
100 West Dean Keeton Student Services Building (SSB)