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If it seems to you like allergy season is off to an early, roaring start...you're right!
Allergies are something many of us deal with, and if you're already experiencing symptoms this season, you're not alone.
Today we're going to talk about what you can do to minimize these earlier, high pollen counts putting a damper on enjoying the natural beauty of spring. And, if you want to understand more about what's behind these earlier season changes, check out this article where Columbia researchers explain what's been going on in recent years.
Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies
Seasonal allergies, also known as hay fever, affect millions of people every year.
When you have allergies, it means your body's defense system gets super sensitive to things like pollen, dust mites, or pet fur. This can make you sneeze a lot, have a runny or stuffy nose, cough, or get itchy eyes. Sometimes, allergies can even make you feel tired or give you headaches.
Seasonal allergies can cause different symptoms for different people, ranging from just a little sniffle to feeling really uncomfortable. Some people might have trouble breathing, feel like their chest is tight, or even get hives. If you notice any of these things, it's important to talk to your doctor or an allergy specialist for help.
Different Causes of Seasonal Allergies
Seasonal allergies happen because of things like pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and mold. If you live in a place where there's lots of pollen in the air, it's important to know about the pollen levels and try to lower how much you're exposed to it.
It's important to know that some people can also have sensitivities to certain foods or medicines. If you're having any of the symptoms we talked about earlier, it's a good idea to chat with your doctor about what might be causing your allergies.
For those dealing with seasonal allergies, the key to feeling better is to make changes in your surroundings. That means trying to avoid things that trigger your allergies, taking steps to prevent them from happening, and using treatments that work for you.
Prevention and Treatment Strategies
The best way to manage your allergies is to take preventive steps and use the right treatments. There are a number of strategies you can use to reduce your exposure to allergens, such as:
Wearing a face mask when outside
Washing your clothes and bedding regularly
Vacuuming and dusting your home regularly
Keeping windows closed
Avoiding high-pollen areas
Staying indoors during high pollen times
In addition to reducing your exposure to allergens, there are several treatments available to help you control your allergies. These include:
Over-the-counter medications, such as antihistamines
Prescription medications, such as corticosteroids
Allergy shots
Natural remedies, including supplements
Natural Remedies for Seasonal Allergies
There are a number of natural remedies that can help you manage your allergies. These include:
Quercetin: Quercetin is a natural compound found in plants that acts like a superhero antioxidant. It helps stop your body's immune cells from releasing histamines, those sneaky chemicals that trigger allergic reactions. Scientists think quercetin might be able to help ease those annoying allergy symptoms we all know too well. While different supplements work for different people, we can certainly attest to quercetin's effectiveness...it's a must-have in our home during allergy season. This quercetin is our family-favorite.
Probiotics: Probiotics are live, healthy bacteria that can help strengthen your immune system and reduce your body’s response to allergens. Quality is everything here. Probiotics should be refrigerated for best efficacy. One of our personal, high-quality favorites is Scdophilus at giprohealth.com
Honey: Eating raw, local honey might help your body get used to pollen because it has tiny amounts of pollen in it. It can also help soothe a sore throat and reduce inflammation.
Vitamin C: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that has antihistamine properties and can help reduce inflammation and boost your immune system.
Nettle tea: Nettle tea is made from stinging nettle leaves, which have anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties. It can help reduce inflammation, as well as the symptoms of seasonal allergies.
Olive Leaf Extract: Olive leaf extract is an herb that has also demonstrated the ability to act as an antihistamine to help reduce allergy symptoms. It can interfere with some medications so always talk with your qualified health care provider to see what may be right for you.
Diet and Lifestyle Changes
Making simple changes to your diet and lifestyle can also help you manage your allergies. These include:
Eating a healthy, balanced diet that’s low in sugar and processed foods
Avoiding foods that you’re allergic to
Staying hydrated
Exercising regularly
Avoiding smoking and secondhand smoke
Getting enough sleep
Over-the-Counter Medications
Over-the-counter medications, such as antihistamines, are often used to manage the symptoms of seasonal allergies. These medications work by blocking the body’s histamine response, thereby reducing the severity of your symptoms.
It’s important to talk to your doctor before taking any over-the-counter medications. Some medications may cause side effects, including drowsiness, dry mouth, and nausea.
Consultation with an Allergy Specialist
If your allergies are severe and you’re not getting relief from over-the-counter medications, it’s important to talk to your doctor or an allergy specialist.
An allergy specialist can help you identify the cause of your allergies and develop an individualized treatment plan.
Allergy-Proofing Your Home
Finally, it’s important to take steps to allergy-proof your home. This means reducing your exposure to allergens, such as dust mites, pet dander, and mold. To do this, you can:
Vacuum and dust regularly
Use a dehumidifier to reduce mold growth
Wash your bedding regularly
Avoid carpeting, as it can trap allergens
Use a quality HEPA air purifier
Keep pets out of the bedroom
Wrapping Up
Dealing with seasonal allergies can be tough, but there are things you can do to make it easier.
You can try different ways to avoid allergens and lessen your symptoms. This might include changing your surroundings, using treatments, or trying natural remedies.
If your allergies are really bad, it's a good idea to talk to your doctor or an allergy specialist. They can figure out what's causing your allergies and make a plan just for you. By managing your allergies and making changes in your surroundings, you can enjoy springtime without feeling miserable.
All blog content shared through HealthSmart! Kids is for informational purposes only and not to be construed as medical advice. Always talk with your qualified health care provider for managing your health care needs.
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