Runny nose got you feeling down? A killer cough keeping you up at night? Sneezing non stop? You could very well be suffering from seasonal allergies! Millions of Americans routinely suffer from seasonal allergies that can often cause congestion, itchy eyes, nose and throat, runny nose, a nasty cough and sneezing. Many folks suffer from seasonal allergies particularly when the seasons change like in the spring when flowers are blooming. Here’s how to relieve seasonal allergies:
What Are Seasonal Allergies?
Seasonal allergies occur when the body comes into contact with a substance that you’re allergic to, known as an allergen, causing your immune system to view and treat the allergen as an invader. When your body recognizes these allergens, the immune system releases chemicals like histamines, leukotrienes and prostaglandins which cause allergic symptoms such as a runny nose, coughing and sneezing.
The more your body views the allergen as a threat, the more severe this immune response. This is what leads to never-ending symptoms that you just can’t seem to get over. Also known as allergic rhinitis or hay fever, seasonal allergies occur when airborne allergens get in the eyes, nose and throat, causing an allergic reaction. These allergies are “seasonal” because they occur around the same time each “season”.
4 Ways To Relieve Seasonal Allergies
1. Try Over-The-Counter Medicine
A number of over-the-counter products can be purchased to help relieve seasonal allergies! Oral antihistamines like Zyrtec and Allegra can help alleviate sneezing, itchy, runny nose and watery eyes. Oral decongestants like Sudafed and Claritin-D can help provide relief from nasal stuffiness and sinus congestion. Corticosteroid nasal sprays such as Flonase and Nasacort can help clear up nasal symptoms.
2. Rinse Your Sinuses
Using a saline solution to rinse your nasal passages is a quick and inexpensive way to relieve nasal congestion! Rinsing the nasal passages flushes out mucus and allergens in your nose that are causing your seasonal allergies. Saline solutions can be made at home or purchased as part of a kit. If you’re making your own solution, combine 1 quart of water, 1.5 teaspoons of canning salt and 1 teaspoon of baking soda.
3. Reduce Exposure to Triggers
What’s better than getting relief from seasonal allergies? Never getting seasonal allergies in the first place! Staying indoors, avoiding mowing or gardening chores and wearing a face mask when outside can all help to reduce your exposure to those pesky allergens. On days when the pollen count is high and the air quality index is poor, it’s best to stay inside to limit your exposure to allergens.
4. Keep Indoor Air Filtered
The quality of the air in your home could impact your seasonal allergies. Allergens find their way into your home through the air. Make sure to use air conditioning in both your home and car to keep air circulating. Use a portable high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter in your home and keep your floors clean with a vacuum cleaner that has a HEPA filter. A dehumidifier is a great way to keep the air dry inside your house.
Now you know how to relieve seasonal allergies with these helpful tips! The team here at Waters Wellness is happy to help answer any questions you may have!
