Allergy Remedies
The arrival of spring brings sunshine, warmer weather, and the need for a new wardrobe. Unfortunately for many, it also brings seasonal allergies, which affect approximately 40 million Americans.1 Symptoms can include sneezing, a runny nose, and red eyes as the pollen from trees, grass, flowers, and other plants finds its way into the air. This year, the pollen count across the United States is at its highest in years.2
What Can I Do?
The simplest way to treat allergies is to avoid the source altogether. Although with pollen, this can be difficult. Keeping windows closed and using air conditioning can help. Another option is to wear a surgical mask. Since pollens are relatively large particles, they should get caught in the filter.
Allergy medications are a popular and effective method of reducing the effects of allergies for many people. Those with mild symptoms can try over-the-counter medications like antihistamines and decongestants. Antihistamines are used to block the chemical histamine to relieve watery and itchy eyes and sneezing. Decongestants alleviate sinus congestion by shrinking swollen membranes. They are often used together to treat the symptoms of allergies.
There are several steps you can take to reduce your exposure. First, make sure to check your local newspaper or the Internet for current pollen levels. Seasonal allergy symptoms can become stronger when pollen counts are higher. When this is the case, try to start taking your allergy medication before the symptoms start. Pollen counts are highest in the morning, so try to avoid outside activities if possible. While inside, use a dehumidifier to keep the air dry. For more resources to help you to understand your allergies, manage your environment, and relieve your symptoms, visit the WebMD or Mayo Clinic websites.
Natural Remedies
In recent years, natural treatments have increasingly been used to calm the effects of seasonal allergies. Butterbur is a European herb that is gaining recognition as a natural remedy that can control allergy symptoms without the drowsiness of some drugs. Though it hasn’t been approved by the FDA, it has had some positive clinical results to date.3
Many doctors also believe that nutrients can help to alleviate seasonal allergies. Quercetin is an herbal supplement with natural vitamin C that has been shown to reduce sinus pain and congestion.
Strengthening the immune system is another way to possibly lessen allergy symptoms. When the body digests healthy food, the immune system is free to worry about other things like allergy response. One way to strengthen the immune system is by eating anti-inflammatory foods like fruits, vegetables, olive oil, or any food with Omega-3 fatty acids. Another method is to eat less inflammatory foods like fast food, processed food, or anything with saturated fat.4 CareFocus Companion Services can help you on the road to well-being with healthy eating tips and other useful information. To see all the helpful resources that CareFocus Companion has to offer, please visit our website at www.carefocuscompanion.com.
For specific individual advice regarding your allergies, contact your doctor or healthcare provider.
The information contained within this article is not meant as a substitute for professional medical advice. When differences exist between the information here and information given to you by your healthcare provider(s), you should follow the advice of your healthcare provider(s). Any additional information or clarification needed should be sought from the Physician who is familiar with the individual’s health and medical conditions.
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[1] ABC News. http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/AllergyAndAsthmaResourceCenter/story?id=675663&page=1
[2] NPR. http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=126155445
[3] WebMD. http://www.webmd.com/allergies/guide/relieve-allergies-natural-way
[4] WebMD. http://www.webmd.com/allergies/features/allergies-diet