Allergy Woes

Allergy  Woes: Seasonal allergies are a common ailment; they affect nearly 36 million Americans,according to the Food and Drug

Administration. In spring and early summer, tree pollen and grass pollen are the main sources of our sneezing – not such great

news, since both are abundant and nearlyimpossible to avoid.

So, how can we battle the yearly sniffling, sneezing and itching? First, it’s important to learn which flowers are safe and which

ones you should steer clear of. Tulips, roses, daffodils and geraniums are generally non-allergy inducing, since they rely on

bees for pollination. On the other hand, daises, sunflowers,

chrysanthemums and cherry blossoms should be avoided; these flowers use wind rather than insects for pollination, meaning more allergens in the air – and in your nose.

To decrease your exposure to irritants, try to stay indoors when pollen and mold counts are high. Keep your windows closed and use air conditioners. Better yet, add a filter to your air conditioner system to reduce allergens. Wash your face intermittently throughout the day and when you come home, take a shower, wash your hair and change your clothes. Don’t mow your lawn or rake leaves, as it stirs up pollen and mold. Instead, ask a less-affected family member to take on the task, or wait until the worst of the season is over.

 If outdoor activity is unavoidable, consider wearing apollen mask. It may not be flattering, but it will save you from suffering. Most importantly, take your allergy medications as prescribed.

An independent study showed that seasonal allergies are more extreme when an individual has recently performed a stressful task (Allergy  Woes). 

According to allergist Clifford Bassett, MD, stress raises levels of the hormone cortisol, which often leads to an amped-up allergic response. If you’re feeling stressed and you’re allergies are flaring, try relaxing by meditating or taking a bubble bath.

If you’ve got sniffles that won’t go away, it’s important to blow your nose or use a saline sinus rinse, which can be found at your local drugstore. Pollen sticks to your nose and unless you clear it out, the

irritation will continue. To prevent the sniffles from starting, keep your sheets andpillowcases clean with a weekly washing, preferably in water that’s at least 140 degrees. This temperature will wipe out dust mites and leave your mornings fog-free. This spring, don’t let allergies stop you in your tracks. Get up, get out and enjoy what the season has to offer!

by kat freestine Allergy  Woes