Briefly describe a specific question, or set of related questions, about a health care test or treatment that this program should consider.

Seasonal allergy medication. I was taking a 24 hour and then tried a 12 hour decongestant for years but now it doesn't work. What can I now take that does not require a prescription? That works.

Does your question include a comparison of different health care approaches? (If no, your topic will still be considered.)

yes

If yes, explain the specific technologies, devices, drugs, or interventions you would like to see compared:

Since the 24 and 12 hour decongestants do not work for me anymore I am taking sudafed tablets two red ones a day and sunmarks' allergy antihistamine one tablet a day. I was using a nettie pot but now it bothers my nose. I have found that if I can exercise that helps. Especially if I can run on the tread mill. If seem the next day I have more energy?

What patients or group(s) of patients does your question apply to? (Please include specific details such as age range, gender, coexisting diagnoses, and indications for therapy.)

Anyone with seasonal allergies.

Are there subgroups of patients that your question might apply to? (For example, an ethnic group, stage or severity of a disease.)

Anyone with seasonal allergies.

Describe the health-related benefits you are interested in. (For example, improvements in patient symptoms or problems from treatment or diagnosis.)

What can I take to stop the ear aches, the tired feeling ( I can't workout no energy), the watery eyes and the weight gain?

Describe any health-related risks, side effects, or harms that you are concerned about.

The damage to my ears. For me that is where it settles and the weight gain. It can make me dizzy. Loosing my energy. I am a baby boomer and very serious about eating well and working out. I am lucky to have very good health except for this and arthritis in my hands (which is not a problem for me). I know for a women my age I am an exception, most women do not work out as long and hard as I do and eat as many vegtables, fruits, and legumes as I eat.

Appropriateness for EHC Program

Does your question include a health care drug, intervention, device, or technology available (or likely to be available) in the U.S.?

yes

Which priority area(s) and population(s) does this topic apply to? (check all that apply)

EHC Priority Conditions (updated in 2008)

• Pulmonary disease/asthma

AHRQ Priority Populations

None

Federal Health Care Program

None

Importance

Describe why this topic is important.

My allergies interrupt my life and I gain weight. I also have learned that this is a common problem with decongestants. What do you take? What will work.

What specifically motivated you to ask this question? (For example, you are developing a clinical guideline, working with a policy with large uncertainty about the appropriate approach, costly intervention, new research you have read, items in the media you may have seen, a clinical practice dilemma you know of, etc.)

I am not alone other people have this problem too.

Does your question represent uncertainty for clinicians and/or policy-makers? (For example, variations in clinical care, controversy in what constitutes appropriate clinical care, or a policy decision.)

no

If yes, please explain:

Potential Impact

How will an answer to your research question be used or help inform decisions for you or your group?

This will help me and other allergy sufferes who have this same problem.

Describe the timeframe in which an answer to your question is needed.

As soon as you can help me and others.

Describe any health disparities, inequities, or impact on vulnerable populations your question applies to.

People who can not afford to go to an allergist for a prescription drug.

Nominator Information

Other Information About You: (optional)

Please choose a description that best describes your role or perspective: (you may select more than one category if appropriate)

This will help me and other allergy sufferes who have this same problem.

Are you making a suggestion as an individual or on behalf of an organization?

Individual

Please tell us how you heard about the Effective Health Care Program

Good Housekeeping Magazine