As the seasons change, so do our allergies. It’s that time of year again when we start to sneeze, sniffle and itch our way through spring and summer. If you’re tired of feeling miserable during allergy season or sick of relying on medication for relief, then this post is for you! We’ve rounded up some tried-and-true tips to help cope with seasonal allergies so that you can enjoy all that these beautiful seasons have to offer without being sidelined by annoying symptoms. So grab a tissue (or two), and let’s get started!
What are seasonal allergies?
Seasonal allergies, also called allergic rhinitis, hay fever, and seasonal asthma, are a type of allergy that occurs when your body reacts to airborne particles that are typically present only during certain times of the year. The most common seasonal allergies are caused by pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds. Seasonal allergies can also be triggered by mold spores and dust mites.
Symptoms of seasonal allergies include sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and congestion. Some people also experience coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. These symptoms can make it difficult to sleep and can interfere with your daily activities.
There are several things you can do to relieve your symptoms and help you cope with seasonal allergies:
-Stay indoors as much as possible when pollen counts are high.
-Wear a dust mask or an allergy mask when you have to go outside.
-Take an antihistamine to relieve sneezing, itching, and runny nose.
-Use a saline spray to flush out your sinuses.
-Apply a topical corticosteroid cream or ointment to reduce itching.
-Try immunotherapy (allergy shots) if other treatments don’t work.
Causes of seasonal allergies
Seasonal allergies are usually caused by pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds. The pollen counts are highest during the times of year when these plants are in bloom. For many people, seasonal allergies can be a minor annoyance. But for others, they can be debilitating. The symptoms of seasonal allergies can include:
• Itchy eyes
• Runny nose
• Sneezing
• Congestion
• Postnasal drip
These symptoms can occur when the body comes into contact with even small amounts of pollen. In some cases, people with seasonal allergies may also experience: • Asthma attacks
• Wheezing
• Shortness of breath
Symptoms of seasonal allergies
If you’re sneezing, wheezing, and have a runny nose this time of year, you’re probably dealing with seasonal allergies. Seasonal allergies, also called allergic rhinitis or hay fever, can make life pretty miserable. The good news is there are things you can do to find relief.
The most common symptoms of seasonal allergies are:
Sneezing
Runny nose
Itchy eyes
Nasal congestion
Wheezing
Coughing
Postnasal drip (mucus dripping down the back of your throat)
These symptoms can make it hard to sleep, concentrate at work or school, and enjoy activities with family and friends. Seasonal allergies can also lead to sinus infections and ear infections.
How to cope with seasonal allergies
If you suffer from seasonal allergies, you’re not alone. In the United States, it is estimated that more than 50 million people have allergies. Seasonal allergies, also called hay fever or allergic rhinitis, can occur at any time of year but are most common in the spring and fall.
There are a number of things you can do to cope with seasonal allergies and reduce your symptoms:
1. Avoid being outdoors when pollen counts are high. Check the local pollen count forecast and plan your activities accordingly. If possible, stay indoors on days when the pollen count is high.
2. Keep windows and doors closed as much as possible to keep pollen out of your home. Use air conditioning to circulate indoor air and filter out pollen.
3. Wear a dust mask or respirator when working outside or engaging in activities that will put you in contact with pollen (such as gardening).
4. bathe or shower after being outdoors to wash away pollen that may be clinging to your hair, skin, and clothing.
5. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids (preferably water) throughout the day. This will help thin secretions and make them easier to expel from your nose and sinuses.
6. Use saline nasal sprays or drops to rinse away irritants and allergens from your nasal passages.
7. Use over-the-counter or prescription medications as directed to relieve symptoms such as sneeze.
Tips for relief
If you’re among the millions of Americans who suffer from seasonal allergies, you know how miserable they can make you feel. Sneezing, a runny nose, itchy eyes and throat, and fatigue are just a few of the symptoms that can put a damper on your spring and summer fun.
But there’s no need to suffer! There are plenty of things you can do to get relief from your seasonal allergies. Here are a few tips:
– Avoid triggers. If you know what triggers your allergies (for instance, pollen or grass), do your best to avoid them. Stay indoors on days when pollen counts are high, and keep windows closed in your home and car. When possible, wear a dust mask when doing outdoor activities such as gardening.
– Wash up. Pollen can cling to your skin and hair, so be sure to take a shower and wash your hair after being outdoors. This will help remove any pollen that’s accumulated on your body during the day.
– Use air conditioning. One of the best ways to keep pollen at bay is to use air conditioning in your home and car. This will help filter out pollen and other allergens from the air, making it easier for you to breathe.
– Take medication. If over-the-counter antihistamines aren’t enough to relieve your symptoms, talk to your doctor about prescription options such as nasal spray corticosteroids or immunotherapy injections (allergy shots
When to see a doctor
If you are struggling with seasonal allergies and over-the-counter medications are not providing relief, it is important to see a doctor. An allergist can help you identify the specific allergens that are triggering your symptoms and develop a treatment plan to provide relief. If your symptoms are severe, you may need to be treated with prescription medication or allergy shots.
Conclusion
All in all, managing seasonal allergies can be a challenge, but with the right approach and lifestyle changes, it is possible to find relief. By following these tips and being mindful of your environment, you can reduce your symptoms and make sure that this allergy season is not one to dread. With the help of these strategies you will soon be able to enjoy outdoor activities without feeling overwhelmed by allergens in the air.
