Dr. Thomas Higgins attended the 2015 Kentucky Medical Association meeting in Louisville, KY this weekend. He hopes to help patients have the voice to receive proper medical care throughout the Commonwealth. As the President of the Kentucky Society of Otolaryngology, Dr. Higgins wants to promote awareness of the needs for treatment of diseases like chronic sinusitis, recurrent ear infections, and head and neck cancer. Some of these medical issues are rare (head and neck cancer) or not immediately life-threatening (chronic sinusitis), so they are not always considered as important as other diseases. But we know they are! The people who live with these problems know all-to-well how debilitating they can be!

Along with Dr. Higgins, Dr. Bruce Scott and Dr. Sean Miller attended the meeting and represented Kentuckiana Ear, Nose & Throat, PSC proudly! Congratulations are in order to Dr. Scott (pictured with Dr. Higgins) for serving as Speaker of the House of Delegates for the KMA.    

The Ragweed Problem

Ragweed pollen is starting to reach high levels in Kentuckiana. Feel like you are getting a "Summer Cold"? Itchy eyes, stuffy nose? Just plain tired? You may be one of many people in this area afflicted allergies to ragweed. It is time to get some treatment before it just gets worse! 

What Can I Do?

1. Be proactive. Start some treatment before the symptoms get bad, particularly if you have had major symptoms at this time of year in the past! 

2. Over-the-Counter. There are many options at your local pharmacy. Below are some good options!

3. Visit your primary care physician or even a specialist allergist or ENT. Your doctor can assist you in get you on a regimen that can keep your symptoms down. Dr. Thomas Higgins specializes in nose and sinus issues. He is accepting new patients and would be happy to help. Call (502) 894-8441 for an appointment or click the link below:

Schedule An Appointment!

Good luck this season!

Two nasal steroid sprays, Flonase and Nasacort, recently went over-the-counter. They are now available to everyone without a prescription. So, just like the antihistamines (Zyrtec, Allegra, Claritin, etc.) several years ago, you now will need to stand in front of these two products with your hand on your chin wondering which spray should you get. Hmm. Sometimes, you will have a doctor tell you his/her preference, but if you are like the majority of people, you have not really discussed this with the doctor. It is 10 o'clock at night on the weekend and you just want something to help you feel better.

So, you go online to search about it. 

And it looks like you came across this article.

Good! Maybe I can shed some light on these products and help you make an informative choice. 

1. Which Spray Went OTC First? Nasacort was available over-the-counter first but Flonase quickly followed.

2. Which Spray Helps with the Most Symptoms? Flonase. Both Nasacort and Flonase sprays help with nasal allergy symptoms of runny nose, nasal congestion, and sneezing. The studies on Flonase showed an additional effect for eye-related symptoms, such as itchy, watery eyes.  

3. Which Spray Lasts the Longest? Both sprays provide 24-hour effectiveness and, in general, can be used once a day. 

4. Which Spray Acts the Fastest? Both sprays are best for continuous use and their maximal effect is not necessarily noticed immediately. Nasacort manufacturers report that symptom relief is noted within 24 hours with their medication.

5. Which Spray Has the Least Side Effects? Both sprays have very low side effects. Most side effects are local adverse reactions, such as burning, irritation, and occasional nose bleeds. Flonase does have alcohol in its formulation, which may lead to a burning sensation. 

6. Which Spray Has No Scent or Bad Taste? Nasacort has been shown to have less scent and bad taste than Flonase. 

7. Which Spray Can be Used in Children? Both Nasacort and Flonase is indicated for use in children. Nasacort is approved for use in children 2 years old and up. Flonase is approved for use in children 4 years old and up.

Hopefully, this article helps clarify the differences and similarities of the two nasal steroid sprays available over-the-counter. Both sprays are highly effective for nasal allergies with minimal side effects. Thanks for reading!

Thomas S. Higgins, MD, MSPH
www.higgins-sinus.com 

Note: The information contained in these pages is for educational purposes only. It should not be construed as individualized diagnostic and treatment advice. Please read the package inserts for complete details about these medicines. This post does not represent the opinion of the manufacturers of these medications.