Natural Remedies For Allergies
Resolving seasonal allergies may just be a matter of finding and addressing the root cause. Its about getting a deeper level of understanding of why youre having an allergic response and then taking steps to decrease or reverse symptoms, explains Dr. Young.
But if youre not sure of the cause be it tree pollen, ragweed, mold or dust, etc. what can you do to tamp down the sniffling, sneezing and wheezing that come when seasonal allergy triggers spike? Here are eight ideas you can try.
Cleaning Tips To Get Rid Of Seasonal Allergies
If you suffer from seasonalallergies, you know that allergens can affect you inside as well as outside.Indoor allergens may be items that you expect to find in the house, such asdust mites and pet dander, but they can also be allergens from outside thatmake their way in. Things like pollen and mold can easily come indoors throughopen windows and door, and will even hitchhike indoors via your clothes orshoes.
Indoor home cleaning can improve the effects of seasonal allergies.Here are some cleaning tips to follow:
Find Out What The Pollen Level Is In Your Area
Knowing the pollen count can help you plan an attack for allergy symptoms. How can you find out? Just turn on your favorite weather report. Many reports include the pollen count in your area. Or, go online to Pollen.com.
Taking a trip? The pollen count may be higher where youre headed. Check the count at your destination and take along medications just in case.
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When Should I See A Doctor About My Allergies
Talk to your health care provider about the best way to manage your seasonal allergies, especially if youre considering using an over-the-counter medicine or dietary supplement. Be aware as some over-the-counter medicines and supplements may interact with medications or other supplements, or have side effects of their own.
A medical professional should treat any serious breathing problems. However, if youre trying to treat your symptoms before seeing a doctor, dont use more than one kind of over-the-counter medication at a time. If you have an existing condition such as heart disease, high blood pressure, or diabetes, or if you are pregnant or nursing, check with your doctor.
Distinguishing between allergies and a cold is key to finding relief from your symptoms. Most natural remedies for seasonal allergies are readily available, but if your symptoms are getting worse, see your doctor.
Dont Just Tough It Out If You Cant Find Relief From Your Allergy Symptoms
No one wants to be miserable. Bad allergies can ruin your quality of life and affect your overall health if symptoms turn into a sinus or upper respiratory infection. The good thing is you have options.
If youve never talked with a doctor about your allergies before, start by making a primary care appointment. Whether you choose a video visit or in-person appointment, your primary care doctor will listen to your symptoms, answer any questions you have and work with you to create a tailored treatment plan including connecting you with specialists like an allergist or an otolaryngologist if needed.
Your doctor can also help make sure if symptoms are related to allergies or COVID-19, a cold or something else.
Have you already been diagnosed with seasonal allergies? Make an in-person appointment with an allergist. If youre struggling to get relief this season or your allergy symptoms feel like theyre getting worse, you can see an allergist without a referral. Allergists specialize in testing to determine what causes your allergies and the best way to treat them.
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When Do Seasonal Allergies Occur
Seasonal allergies occur when pollen and other environmental allergens are present in the air. These allergens are usually released by plants during certain times of the year, usually in spring and fall. The number of allergens in the air can vary daily, so its essential to be aware of the pollen count in your area.
Additionally, seasonal allergies vary from region to region. For example, people in the Midwest may be more likely to suffer from hay fever due to ragweed, while those in the South may be more likely to suffer from allergies due to cedar and oak trees.
Keep The Floors Clean
Vacuum carpet and rugsregularly using a vacuum that has a HEPA filter which will prevent allergens from being blown back into the air. Mophard surfaces, instead of sweeping, to trap and remove allergens. Other cleaning tips for floors are to keep outside your entrance clean toreduce the allergens that are tracked indoors on shoes and remove shoes uponentering.
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The Best Natural Remedy For Allergies
The best natural remedy for allergies is, when possible, avoidance. Both doctors and natural healers will suggest that you limit or avoid allergens, which are what causes your allergic reaction.
You should avoid exposure to your allergens. For example, if youve had an allergic reaction to a sulfa drug, let your doctor know about your allergy. Theyll most likely prescribe an alternate antibiotic if youll ever need one.
That being said, some allergens are hard to avoid. In that case, after discussing your symptoms with your doctor, you might consider a home remedy for allergies to deal with the results of exposure to an allergen.
Seasonal Allergies: 4 Routes To Relief
Whether your fall allergy symptoms are mild or miserable, here’s help.
Ah, fall. The perfect time to get outside for long walks in the neighborhood, hikes in the hills, and autumn gardening.
But that “ah” can quickly become “ah-choo” if you’re one of the 36 million Americans with seasonal allergy problems. The runny nose, itchy eyes, and congestion — all typical fall allergy symptoms — can slow you down and make you miserable.
While there have been no dramatic advances recently in allergy treatment, experts say if you are allergy-prone, you can take a number of steps to minimize the misery.
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Clear Out The Clutter
Home cleaning to improve theeffects of allergies isnt just for routine chores its important to alsoeliminate clutter. Items just sitting around the home, such as stacks of oldmagazines or boxes of items that are no longer used are known for accumulatingdust and other allergens. Instead of needing to remember to clean these items,just get rid of them.
Eat Foods Containing Quercetin
Quercetin, a powerful flavonoid antioxidant, is found in many fruits and vegetables you eat everyday . Quercetin-containing foods include broccoli, onions, and green tea. It takes a few months for this allergy-controlling compound to take effect. Include quercetin-containing foods in your diet year-round to build-up your resistance against pollen.
This potent antioxidant helps stop the release of histamines and steadies mast cell membranes. Quercetin can prevent leukotrienes, lysosomal and other inflammatory enzymes from triggering allergy symptoms.
You may drink apple or orange juice with breakfast, but tart cherry juice is another option for preventing allergies. This delicious juice is rich in Vitamin A and Vitamin C, and also helps promote better brain health.
Quercetin can help prevent other types of allergies, too. An Iranian study showed that quercetin can even reduce the dangerous and life-threatening effects of peanut allergies.
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Need More Help Visit Gohealth Urgent Care
If these at-home remedies do not work and youre experiencing severe allergy symptoms, please visit an urgent care clinic for treatment. GoHealth Urgent Care can help diagnose, treat, and manage your seasonal and acute allergies, as well as related conditions.
Experience the quality on-demand care that you deserve. Its easy and convenient to schedule a visit with one of our knowledgeable providers today.
What Is The Fastest Way To Fix Seasonal Allergies 13 Quick Fixes
According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, about 8% of Americans are affected by seasonal allergies, also known as hay fever.
Seasonal allergies can make you miserable. Here are 13 of the fastest ways to get allergy relief.
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How To Cope With Hay Fever Symptoms
Regardless of whether your allergies are mild or severe, or if it is a skin or eye allergy, it doesnt take long for you to start feeling lousy after seasonal allergy symptoms strike. So how do you prevent seasonal allergies from getting in the way of your day? Here are some helpful tips to reduce or keep symptoms from worsening.
Check Daily Pollen Counts
Since pollen is the most common culprit of allergies, monitor pollen counts regularly. When the count is high, try to avoid extended periods outside. If you have to spend time outdoors, wearing sunglasses can prevent pollen from getting into your eyes. Filtered masks can also stop allergens from entering your respiratory system.
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Visit A Sinus Specialist In Detroit
If all else fails, schedule an appointment with your local sinus specialist or ENT doctor. Detroit Sinus Center offers a variety of sinus treatments ranging from prescription medications to non-invasive surgeries. Well help you through allergy season so you can breathe easy once again. Contact us today to schedule your appointment with our sinus specialists in Detroit!
When To See A Healthcare Provider
Seasonal allergies are a fact of life for many people, but effective treatments are available. If you havent spoken with your healthcare provider about your allergies before, its a good time to have the conversation. If you notice changes to your allergy symptoms or the times you experience seasonal allergies, you should also talk with your healthcare provider.
Any time you’re experiencing facial or throat swelling, trouble breathing, or any other concerning symptoms, call 911 or seek medical help immediately.
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Pet Seasonal Allergy Symptoms To Look For
Dogs and cats show similar allergy symptoms as humans, yet they experience them most through their skin. Excessive scratching likely means itchy, irritated skin. Here are a few more symptoms to watch out for:
- Scratching and biting their coat or skin
- Red, inflamed, or infected skin
- Excessive shedding
- Compulsive paw licking in dogs
- Chronic ear infections or red, waxy ears
- Respiratory issues, such as difficulty breathing, coughing, or wheezing
The Basics Of Seasonal Allergies
Whether youve had allergies for your whole life or youre just noticing more symptoms now, its important to understand what youre working with and how a long-term plan could benefit your overall health and well-being. Rhinitis flare-ups, more commonly referred to as seasonal allergies, are most common in the spring, but they can occur at other times of the year as well. When pollen particles from grass, trees, and weeds get into the air, they can trigger the sniffles, drowsiness, and fatigue associated with seasonal allergies. Dealing with these symptoms and stopping them from impacting your daily life starts with making some simple lifestyle changes for natural solutions. Holistic natural medicine is often an easier and more efficient way of preventing allergy flare-ups, especially if you havent had much luck with traditional medicine and methods in the past. Freedom from uncomfortable and even painful allergy symptoms starts with holistic health.
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Easy Ways To Beat Seasonal Allergies When The Pollen Count Spikes
If your seasonal allergies are making you miserable this spring, you’re not alone. More than 50 million Americans experience allergies each year. The good news is there are measures you can take to minimize the impact of seasonal allergies.
Seasonal allergies are usually caused by three main types of pollen: trees, grass, and weeds. They’re called “seasonal allergies” because each type of pollen has a season where they’re most potent. Here’s a general timeline of common pollen seasons:
- Some outdoor molds also peak in the fall months
When you’re monitoring pollen counts for your specific allergy, here are 10 ways to cope:
Pollen counts tend to rise on dry, warm, and windy days, so if it’s breezy outside, try to stay indoors.
Pollen counts are highest in the morning and again at night, so if you need to go outside, try to do it when counts are low.
When it comes to seasonal allergies, it’s important to know exactly what you’re allergic to so you can take appropriate action.
“I have patients who come in saying they’re allergic to pets, then we perform a skin test and it turns out they’re actually allergic to oak trees or another pollen the pet is bringing inside on their fur,” says Erin Willits, MD, an allergist and immunologist at Intermountain Alta View Hospital.
Are You Really Struggling With Allergies
Stay out of the pollen and talk to an eCare medical provider anytime, anywhere 24/7 for nonurgent health issues, including cough, sinus discomfort and sore throat.
An allergy happens when the immune system reacts to a substance, such as pollen, and releases histamine, a chemical found in some of the bodys cells. After histamine is released, symptoms appear in the nose, sinuses, eyes, throat and even ears, skin and stomach. Many times the result is a runny nose, sneezing, headaches, itchy and watery eyes and sore throat.
If youre struggling, there are some things you can do to reduce your reactions and also soothe your symptoms, according to Rachel Alexander, APRN, Norton eCare:
1. Limit your time outdoors. Pollen counts are highest in midday, early evening and when its windy.
2. Use air conditioning both in the car and in your home. Consider a HEPA filter for your home.
3. Shower in the evening to wash the pollen off before bedtime. Be sure to thoroughly wash your hair. The steam from the shower is sometimes beneficial in relieving symptoms.
4. Use a saline rinse to clear pollen from nasal passages. There are several varieties out there, from neti pots to special sprayers and even electronic devices. Talk to your health care provider about the best options for you.
5. Keep pets out of your bedroom if they have been outdoors. This reduces the amount of pollen in your sleeping area.
6. Dry clothes in a dryer, not outdoors on a clothesline.
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Wash Clothes After Going Outside
Mold and pollen spores attach to your clothes, and you need to get rid of them before you track them into your house. Take off your clothes as soon you get home and shake them off outside, on a porch, or in the yard. Wash clothes with an anti-allergen detergent, or regular detergent and a bit of bleach. Dry your clothes in a dryer. Hanging them outside may attract pollen.
Pop Fish Oil Supplements
Fish oil is rich in omega-3, which has anti-inflammatory properties, too. A study in the UK showed that pregnant women who took fish oil supplements for a month reduced their babys risk of developing food allergies in eggs as children. Some 22 percent of kids also lessened their risk of eczema development.
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Your Symptoms Might Only Show Up At Certain Times
If you have seasonal allergies, your symptoms should arise and go away around the same time each year. For most people, seasonal allergy symptoms begin in the spring and end in the fall. However, depending on your allergy triggers, you may experience allergic rhinitis in any of the four seasons. Here’s a rundown of plants that commonly cause seasonal allergies:
Spring:Tree pollen, particularly from oak, elm, birch, cedar, willow, poplar, horse chestnut and alder trees.
Summer: Grasses, such as ryegrass, Kentucky bluegrass, Timothy grass and Bermuda grass.
Fall: Pollen from weeds is the main concern in the fall months. Many people are allergic to the pollen in ragweed, tumbleweed, pigweed, sagebrush, Russian thistle and other plants.
Winter:Most people find that their allergies go dormant during the winter months because most plants don’t pollinate during winter. If you still get watery eyes and a runny nose during cold weather, you might be allergic to indoor allergens, such as dust mites, mold or pet dander.
Controlling Seasonal Allergies With Cleared
A number of pollinating plants cause seasonal allergies, but theyre all equally uncomfortable. With that said, symptoms like runny and stuffy nose, coughing, watery eyes, and itchy skin are treatable.
Avoiding your allergens is the only way to completely prevent symptoms, though antihistamine medications are fast-acting and effective. If thats not enough, immunotherapy can actually treat the cause of your allergies and improve your overall quality of life.
Your online allergist is in. Cleared has FDA-approved medications, licensed professionals, and personalized therapy to finally bring an end to a world filled with allergen-causing irritants.
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How Are Seasonal Allergies Treated
Seasonal allergies are treated in a variety of ways. Most often, over-the-counter or prescription antihistamines help suppress the bodys immune response, providing relief from symptoms. Decongestants can be used to relieve congestion. Over-the-counter cough medications are commonly recommended as well.
For people who need additional relief, antihistamine or steroidal nose sprays can be prescribed by your doctor. These help calm the bodys immune response to seasonal airborne allergens.
If you need more specialized care, your doctor may recommend allergen immunotherapy. This helps your immune system build up a tolerance against an allergen by exposing you to the irritant in small doses. Allergen immunotherapy can be given in two ways:
- Subcutaneous injections: Once your doctor determines what youre allergic to, she administers a series of shots containing those specific allergens. The shots are given in the doctors office over many months or years, usually in the arm.
- Sublingual immunotherapy: As an alternative to injections, you can try prescription tablets or drops that dissolve under the tongue . Sublingual immunotherapy is only available for grass and ragweed allergies, however.
