“A-choo!” Seasonal Allergy Relief

Source: pollen.com

Yes to the spectacular sunshine. Yes to the breathtaking flowers popping up. Yes to putting the ice scrapers away for 6 months. But a definite NO to spring allergies. Can we get an “A-men” after your next “A-choo”?

It’s estimated that between 10-20% of American adults suffer from seasonal allergies. For reasons not fully understood, the immune system gets a bit confused and starts to react to generally innocuous items.

The first key to reducing symptoms: know thy triggers.

It may be the case that pollen is to blame, but mold or even mites may also play a role in some people’s allergies.

Here are 10 tips to stave off a runny nose and sneezing during allergy season.

1. Follow pollen and mold counts, which are typically included in weather reports.
2. Nasal saline irrigation can help keep your nasal passages clear of irritating allergens. A staple in the Ayurvedic traditions, a neti pot is a nifty vehicle for getting the job done. Ensure you are using quality water (distilled, bottled, or previously boiled) and properly caring for the pot to prevent infection.
3. Though it is tempting to let the fresh air in, consider keeping windows and doors shut both at home and in your car.
4. There’s some anecdotal as well as scientific evidence that raw, local honey may help desensitize symptoms of allergies
5. Consider showering in the evening to help wash away the pollen gathered on clothes, hair, and body before sleeping.
6. Rethink your diet. An anti-inflammatory diet of foods rich with antioxidants and omega-3s can mitigate symptoms. Also evaluate dairy consumption and its role in mucus production.
7. Pollen counts are typically highest late-morning and during the afternoon hours so you may want to stay indoors.
8. Hypnotherapy has been show in studies, such as the one from Switzerland’s University Hospital Basel, to provide significant improvements in symptoms; it can work very well as adjunctive care.
9. Wearing a particulate respirator mask while mowing the lawn can help abate allergy symptoms.
10.  Quercetin is an antioxidant that helps stop cells from releasing histamine. It can take weeks to work so it’s best to start supplementing before allergy season begins.

Other well-known options exist, including over-the-counter and prescription medications as well as allergy shots.

Pretty soon you may find you are more the giver, and less the recipient, of “bless you”, “salud” and “Gesundheit!”