Sneezing, itching, and wheezing, oh my!
If you’re one of the nearly 60 million people in the United States who suffer from seasonal
allergies, these symptoms are likely familiar. Sneezing, runny nose, and red, itchy, watery eyes are the most common symptoms of seasonal allergies. They may also be accompanied by a stuffy nose, post-nasal drip, wheezing, coughing, headache, fatigue, itching, or throat irritation.
Grass pollen, tree pollen, and ragweed pollen are the biggest offenders of seasonal allergies. Typically, the grass is an issue in the winter and spring, trees in the late spring and early summer, and ragweed in the late summer and fall. Medications and/or allergy shots are common options for medical treatment, but there are also natural and at-home remedies that can be helpful for both prevention and treatment.
Stay inside (if possible, of course). Staying inside during peak allergy season is likely to be helpful. It’s also recommended to avoid activities that stir up allergens, e.g. lawn mowing, weed eating, and gardening. You can search “pollen” in the app store on your phone to download an app that identifies the pollen count in your area so that you know when to practice avoidance.
Remove allergens from your body and environment. Changing clothes and showering can help remove pollen that’s stuck to you. It’s also wise to avoid outdoor drying of clothing during peak allergy times. Having an air filter (big or small) and changing air filters regularly can be very helpful, as can vacuuming and dusting.
Try acupuncture. It’s demonstrated positive results for seasonal allergies and is a more natural, holistic approach than medications and shots, which are preferred by some.
Take dietary supplements. Vitamin C, quercetin, and stinging nettle are commonly recommended to help with the management of seasonal allergy symptoms. Check with a trusted healthcare provider about use and dose. Probiotics, i.e. “good bacteria” are also recommended to help with gut health, which is linked to allergies.
Use essential oils. Peppermint, eucalyptus, and frankincense essential oils may be helpful with the management of allergy symptoms. Again, check with a trusted healthcare provider about use.
Whether you prefer a more natural or conventional approach to allergy management, we hope that this information has been helpful!
Do you suffer from seasonal allergies? If so, how do you manage them? Let us know in the comments!