While everybody else is wandering around enjoying the spring weather, are you hiding out in your hermetically-sealed house? Do you dread the start of poolside parties because your date is going to be a box of tissues? If so, like so many of us, allergies may be running your life.

Why me? And why allergies?

An allergy is caused when your body releases chemicals to ward off foreign bodies trying to make their way into your blood stream. These chemicals are also released when you pollen or pet dander enter your nose and drift onto your eyes - causing those itchy, runny, congested feelings!

And sometimes the cures worse than the disease: many over-the-counter medicines have unpleasant side effects like dry mouth and drowsiness. You end up like Snow Whites favorite dwarves are running your life: Sneezy, Grumpy, Sleepy and Dopey!

Before you give the fight up as hopeless, though, maybe its time for a quick visit to Doc! He or she may suggest Nasonex for allergy relief.

Why might my doctor recommend Nasonex?

Nasonex is a gentle nasal spray that relieves allergy symptoms. It gently covers the lining of your nose with a fine mist of steroids. Unlike steroids that you hear about in the news, these wont give you muscles like Governor Schwarzenegger! Instead, it reduces the release of those allergy chemicals in your nose and stops that itchy-runny-sneezy cycle before it takes off! Except for people who have glaucoma or cataracts, Nasonex can be a safe, non-drowsy path to allergy relief.

Some things to know before you start using Nasonex

If you feel a little squeamish about introducing things into your nostrils, dont worry. The tip of the applicator wont hurt your tender nose, and the spray doesnt sting, though the sensation may take getting used to. Most people only need to take it once a day, so a couple of little sppffs with the applicator and youll be ready to go!

Your body will start responding to the medication in a little as two days and - whew! - Your allergy symptoms will start to calm down. You should get the full effect in one to two weeks, so hang tight as the medication starts to work!

You might have side effects like sore throat, nasal dryness and headache. If they become as much of a hassle as the allergies, or if you feel like theyre getting worse, you should check with your doctor to make sure that your dose is right and this is the best medication for you.

A few rare side effects require immediate attention. Stop the medication and talk to a doctor immediately if you see blood in your throat or nasal mucus or you experience an unexplained weight loss. If you find yourself getting unusually thirsty or urinating more than usual, again, its time to see a doctor as soon as possible. Lastly, if youve been exposed to chicken pox or measles while taking this medication, talk to your prescribing doctor as soon as possible.

The happy ending

For most people, one to two weeks is all the time it takes for Nasonex to take full effect. Youll be able to face those garden parties with a smile, and a strong confidence that you can leave your tissue behind!