Tuesday 28 May 2013

Things That Could make Your Seasonal Allergies Worse

The winter was warm and spring sprung early this year – leaving many of us allergy sufferers suffering early. We’re experiencing itchy, watery eyes, congested sinuses and misery up to a month
earlier than usual and allergy symptoms only seem to worsen as the temperature increases and lovely flowers, luscious grass, and shade trees bloom early.

Spring is just around the corner, and that means sprouting flowers and blooming trees. If you're one of the millions of people who have seasonal allergies, it also means sneezing, congestion, runny nose and other bothersome symptoms. Seasonal allergies — also called hay fever and allergic rhinitis — can make you miserable. But you don’t have to settle for a miserable allergy season. Try these simple strategies to help reduce the likelihood of suffering from the symptoms related to seasonal allergies.

What not to do if you have seasonal allergies:

1. Eat certain fruits and vegetables - While this rarely makes a "what not to do" list, if you suffer from seasonal allergies, you may also suffer from pollen food allergy syndrome, "a cross-reaction between the similar proteins in certain types of fruits, vegetables (and some nuts) and the allergy-causing pollen," noted the statement. For instance, if you are allergic to birch or alder trees, you might react to celery, apples, or cherries. Grass allergies? Then tomatoes, potatoes, or peaches may bother you. Talk to your allergist.

2. Use the wrong air filter - Studies show inexpensive air conditioning filters and ionic electrostatic room cleaners aren't helpful, and that the ions released in the latter can be irritants. Look to whole-house filtration systems but change the filters regularly.

3. Open your windows - To keep pollen from drifting inside your house and settling into carpet and furniture, keep your windows shut during allergy season. Also, keep your car windows closed, since pollen can settle into car upholstery as well.

4. Procrastinate - If you have a history of seasonal allergies, get a jumpstart on the condition and begin taking your medications before the season gets underway.

5. Self-medicate - Rather than trying to resolve the problem yourself, talk to an allergist, who can help you determine what is triggering your symptoms and suggest the proper treatment plan.

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