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Asthma/Runny nose and asthma

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Expert: - 1/31/2009


Question
I was diagnosed with asthma just six weeks ago.  One of the symptoms I presented to my doctor was a runny nose.  My nose only seems to "drip" at odd times--like when I eat.  Being in the cold weather outside doesn't seem to matter.  Sometimes, my nose will just start to drip while I'm having a conversation, with no warning.  I have lots of allergies, which have been helped immensely by Allegra 180.  Any suggestions to control the "drip"?

Answer
Hi LaVerne,

Sorry for getting back so late.

There are two specific options I'd look at:

1) Astepro Nasal Spray or Patanase Nasal Spray, both are antihistamines effective for allergic rhinitis (nose inflammation) as well as vasomotor rhinitis, another nasal runniness unrelated to allergies. Need to use every 12 hours, and may cause drowsiness.

2) Nasal Steroid Sprays, generally the standard of care for allergic rhinitis. There are a number of different ones, some with faster onset (like 1 day versus 3), but by day 3, they are generally equivalent. I don't specify one, since your insurance plan may have its own preferences. Flonase brand is available as generic (and it comes out of the same factory)is frequently the preferred product.

Another benefit, when the sinuses are not well controlled, they can also trigger your lungs to inflame and spasm, so it would improve your asthma control as well.

Should your physician approve this, make sure you get proper instruction in the use of the nasal spray device. If they don't take time to show you, get back to me for in-depth instruction.

Hope this helps you!
Sincerely,

Marc

Asthma

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Marc Rubin, RPh Asthma Educator

Expertise

I have worked directly with patients as well as caregivers for over 30 years. Have made presentations throughout Illinois educating school nurses as well as the teaching and coaching staff of public schools about asthma, and how they should respond to these students needs. Presented a public education program on asthma through the US Department of Public Health. Specialize in helping guide asthmatic patients to take control of their disease in order to live a near-normal, fully active life.

Experience

Practicing pharmacist for 34 years, specializing in asthma for past 7 years. Statewide education to nurses, teachers and athletic coaches regarding asthma. In addition, and closer to home. my wife and daughter both have asthma, and my son has exercise induced bronchospasm. I'm also on the advisory board of a medical education company, Emmi Solutions, and directly involved in the creation of public education programs for asthma, COPD and diabetes.

Organizations
American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI) / Sports Medicine Committee, American Thoracic Society (ATS). Chicago Asthma Consortium / Professional Development Committee, Respiratory Health Association of Metropolitan Chicago: Development Committee for AE-C prep class, and presenter.

Publications
AAAAI PowerPoint on the new guidelines for EIB (Exercise Induced Bronchospasm)

Education/Credentials
BScPharm, RPh, AE-C (NAECB Certified asthma educator), NIPCO Certified Respiratory Care Pharmacist

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