Why Allergies Happen and How to Find Relief
Dr. David Gudis, otolaryngologist at NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia, breaks down what hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, really is: an overreaction of the immune system to harmless triggers like pollen, pet dander, and dust. He explains why allergy seasons are getting longer, how allergies can affect sleep and mental health, and shares practical, evidence‑based strategies for managing allergies, so listeners can breathe easier this allergy season and beyond.
Health Matters · Courtney Allison
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Show Notes
Why do allergies happen—and why do they seem to be getting worse every year? In this episode of Health Matters, host Courtney Allison sits down with Dr. David Gudis, an otolaryngologist and chief of the Division of Rhinology and Anterior Skull Base Surgery at NewYork‑Presbyterian and Columbia, to break down the basics of hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis.
Dr. Gudis explains what’s really behind common allergy symptoms like sneezing, congestion, fatigue, and brain fog, and why hay fever is actually an overreaction of the immune system—not the pollen itself. He discusses why allergy seasons are lasting longer, how environmental factors and modern living may play a role, and the surprising ways allergies can affect sleep, concentration, and mental health.
This episode offers practical, science‑based guidance—from simple prevention strategies to over‑the‑counter treatments and allergy shots—to help you breathe easier this season and beyond.
Chapters:
00:00 – What Is Hay Fever?
An introduction to allergic rhinitis and why allergy symptoms happen
04:00 – Why Are Allergy Seasons Getting Worse?
Climate, environment, and changes in immune response
09:40 – How Do Allergies Affect Sleep, Focus, and Mental Health?
The surprising impact on wellbeing, mood, and daily life
10:45 – How Do I Find Relief? Treatments That Work
Avoidance strategies, medications, allergy shots, and nasal rinses
Key Topics Covered:
- Hay fever / allergic rhinitis
- Immune system overreaction
- Seasonal and environmental allergies
- Mental health and sleep disruption
- Pollen season and climate effects
- Allergy prevention and treatment
- Nasal sprays, antihistamines, and immunotherapy
Takeaway Message:
Hay fever isn’t “just allergies” — it’s a real, systemic condition caused by an overactive immune response that can affect sleep, mood, concentration, and quality of life. The good news? Effective treatments exist, and with the right approach, allergy symptoms can be controlled
Doctor Bio:
Dr. David Gudis is an otolaryngologist and Chief of the Division of Rhinology and Anterior Skull Base Surgery at NewYork‑Presbyterian and Columbia. He specializes in disorders of the nose and sinuses, including allergic rhinitis, chronic sinusitis, and nasal inflammation. Dr. Gudis is dedicated to helping patients understand the root causes of their symptoms and access effective, personalized treatments that improve daily life and overall wellbeing.