Seasonal allergies - how you can treat and keep them in check

16.03.2017
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Seasonal allergies - how you can treat and keep them in check

Was the first spring present you received a runny nose? Do you sneeze or cough more than usual? You might be one of the millions of people who suffer from spring allergies.

Seasonal allergies develop when the body’s immune system becomes sensitized and overreacts to something in the environment. Grass, pollen and mold are some of the most common triggers of seasonal allergies. As described by the majority of people, the most common symptoms for seasonal allergies are the following: sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, watery and itchy eyes, itchy sinuses, throat or ear canals and ear congestion. Less common symptoms are headaches and shortness of breath.

There are different ways to treat the allergies depending on the severity. But before that, there are measures you can take to manage and prevent the allergies from taking place:

  • Try to monitor pollen and mold counts by keeping tabs on weather reports in media, as they often include such information during allergy seasons;
  • Try to spend less time outdoors;
  • Take some preventive allergy medicine, which can also include herbal remedies;
  • Vacuum and mop your floors regularly;
  • Keep the pets off of beds and couches;
  • Drink more water.

If you feel like you need certain medication to control the symptoms, get yourself checked by an allergist. Some of the most used allergy medications are:

  • Decongestants and Antihistamines that need medical prescription;
  • Combinations of acetaminophen, diphenhydramine, and phenylephrine;
  • Oral antihistamines that can be taken without prescription;
  • Eye drops for itchy and dry eyes.

No matter what triggers your allergies, prevention can save up a lot of time and money you would have to spend on treatments later on. Which of the prevention methods about you think will work for you?


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