Can A Neti Pot Help With Allergies
I swear by my neti pot.
There are many times throughout the year where I just use it preventatively each morning. But when my allergies are under attack, its not uncommon for me to use it twice a day.
There are some fancy battery powered ones, but for me, I like the simplicity of the basic Ceramic Neti Pot . Great price, free Prime shipping and hundreds of awesome reviews too.
If you arent familiar with nettie pots, you pour warm water into your nettie combined with sea salt and mix.
You turn your head sideways over a sink and gently pour into the top nostril. The water and salt solution goes through your sinuses and back out the other nostril providing instant sinus relief!
Personally I boil my water first to ensure its pure and then let it cool enough to go through my passages. But you could also buy distilled water too. I would personally not just use tap water due to possible bacterial concerns and the delicate nature of the sinus passages.
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Natural Remedies To Improve Allergy Symptoms
Allergies are caused by the immune system overreacting to typically harmless substances in the world around us. Several medications can help, but some people prefer to try natural remedies for their allergies. While some natural treatments have data behind them that suggest their effectiveness, its hard to say definitively whether they will actually work. Several natural remedies for allergies have the potential to cause allergic reactions themselves.
# 1 Colostrum And Dog Allergies
Colostrum is naturally found in mothers first milk. It plays a vital role in developing the newborns immune system and digestive tract. But colostrum can help adult animals too . Colostrum contains an component called proline-rich polypeptide .
Research shows PRP helps improve allergy symptoms. It does this by changing the way the immune system responds to allergens. PRP can inhibit immune cells that ramp up allergic reactions. It can also help create immune cells that suppress and switch off the immune response. PRP is also anti-inflammatory and can reduce histamine that triggers allergic reactions.
Bovine colostrum also supplies your dog with antibodies to common allergens. Thats because cows develop antibodies to pollen, fleas and other allergens theyre exposed to. The cows then pass these antibodies to their calves. The calves wont develop allergies to these substances. So when you give your dog colostrum, those antibodies can tell his immune system that these common substances arent a threat. This can help provide the allergy relief that your dog needs.
Colostrum works especially well with environmental allergies and seasonal allergies.
How Much Colostrum Do Dogs Need?
Colostrum comes in either powdered or capsule form. Its most effective when given on an empty stomach, but you can also put it in a little yogurt or broth.
Use it daily for a month to start, then give as needed if your dogs allergy symptoms resolve, in these amounts
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Wear A Mask Outside During Peak Allergy Season
Masks can help filter out pollen and reduce allergy symptoms.
A small 2021 study found that people who wore either medical or FFP2 masks reduced their exposure to pollen and staved away allergy symptoms.
Another small 2021 study also found that wearing face masks helped allergy sufferers avoid symptoms in both the nose and eyes.
Check your local weather for the pollen count. On days with a high amount of pollen in the air, you might want to wear a mask while outside.
What Are Some Seasonal Allergy Treatments
Prevention is key for seasonal allergy relief. The following tips can help your recovery:
- Remove any plants that could be causing your reaction. Its common for people to be allergic to hard-to-see things like pollen.
- Change your daily routine so that youre not around the source of your discomfort. Avoid the outdoors between 5:00 am and 10:00 am. Save outside activities for late afternoon or after a heavy rain, when pollen counts are lower.
- Change your clothes when you get home to avoid tracking allergens around your living space.
- Keep windows in your home and car closed to lower exposure to pollen. To keep cool, use air conditioners and avoid using window fans.
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Protect Your Kid’s Eyes
Itchy, red, teary eyes are one of the most aggravating symptoms of allergies. The itch stems from inflammation of the mucous membrane covering the whites of the eyes and inner eyelids. The fix: Keep pollen away from your child’s face. Edith Schussler, M.D., a pediatric allergist at Weill Cornell Medicine, in New York City, advises wearing sunglasses and a hat with a brim. Kids touch their face all the time, but with these accessories on, your child will be less likely to rub their eyes.
Foods High In Quercetin
Quercetin is a bioflavonoid antioxidant found in many plant-based foods, especially cruciferous vegetables like cabbage and broccoli, as well as onions, shallots, garlic, citrus fruits, green tea, berries, bell peppers, parsley, and apples.
One 2010 study found that quercetin effectively lowers allergy symptoms since it calms the airways, and may even help control peanut allergies. It has been suggested that quercetin is best as a long-term natural remedy because it may take several months before its effects start to work. That is why experts recommend that people prone to seasonal allergies begin eating quercetin-rich foods a couple months before spring arrives.
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How Are Allergies Diagnosed
The first step in diagnosing allergies is an evaluation by your physician to review your symptoms and medical history and to rule out other potential medical problems. You can help your doctor make an accurate diagnosis by keeping a record of your symptoms, including when they started and what triggers them.
If allergies are suspected, your doctor may order tests. These include skin and blood tests. Your doctor may also perform a lung function test or an X-ray of your lungs.
Engage In Regular Exercise
A small 2018 study found that patients who did regular aerobic exercise for eight weeks saw improvements in allergy symptoms including nasal congestion, sneezing, and itching
If aerobic exercise doesn’t interest you, yoga may also help bring relief. A small 2019 study had a group of allergy patients do an hour of hatha yoga three times a week for eight weeks. The patients who did yoga regularly saw improved allergy symptoms due to reduced nasal blood flow and nasal inflammation.
Additionally, a small 2019 study found that people with allergies who exercised outdoors during the winter had reduced airway inflammation and saw improved allergy symptoms.
Note: When planning to exercise outside during allergy season, check the pollen count in your area and try to go when levels are lowest. Or exercise inside.
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What Is Allergic Rhinitis
Allergic rhinitis is an inflammatory condition that affects the nasal passages, sinuses, ears, and throat. Also known as pollinosis and hay fever, it occurs when an allergic person inhales an allergen to which they are sensitive.
There are two types of allergic rhinitis. Seasonal allergy sufferers develop symptoms during spring, fall, or both seasons when they become exposed to airborne pollen and outdoor mold spores. Perennial allergic rhinitis, which is year-around, is caused by indoor allergens such as house dust, pet dander, dust mites, and indoor molds.
Symptoms:
The symptoms of this allergy include itching, sneezing, runny nose, postnasal drip, as well as congestion of the nose, ears, and sinuses. There could also be fatigue and a general feeling of being “unwell” during an allergy attack. These symptoms vary in severity from person to person.
Herbal Treatment Options for Allergies
Herbal remedies could provide an alternative way to treat allergic rhinitis. If used sensibly, these natural medicines can not only reduce allergic symptoms but also prevent them altogether. They can also strengthen the body’s tissues and organs, thus improving your overall health. Here are some of the herbs best suited for treating allergies and various respiratory issues.
Natural Plants can be Effective Medicine:
Lipkowitz, Myron A., and Tova Narava. The Encyclopedia of Allergies. Facts on File, Inc., 2001 , pp. 13-14.
# 3 Quercetin And Dog Allergies
Quercetin is a phytonutrient found in fruits and vegetables. Its an antioxidant and it also antihistamine and anti-inflammatory.
Quercetin is called Natures Benadryl because it can turn off histamine production. Histamines are chemicals that cause allergic reactions. Research has shown that quercetin prevents immune cells from releasing histamines. Quercetin is in foods like broccoli and apples. But its best to give your dog quercetin in a supplement, so you get the concentrated benefits.
How Much Quercetin For Dogs With Allergies?
For a convenient way to give your dog some allergy relief, try a quercetin supplement. Quercetin supplements come in pill, powder or capsule form. They often contain bromelain, which is an enzyme that makes quercetin more effective.
Quercetin is best given on an empty stomach. The recommended dose is 8 mg for every pound of your dogs weight.
- For a 20 lb dog, give 160 mg
- For a 50 lb dog, give 400 mg
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Food Cures: Natural Allergy Relief Remedies
What if the cure for allergies, or at least their management, is simply your diet, and depends on what you eat and put into your body? An anti-inflammatory diet is ideal, since it can help reduce your levels of inflammation and allergy symptoms. These are nutrient-dense, whole foods that help repair the immune system so it can fight common allergies from your environment.
While science has not confirmed that any foods cure allergies, some may help ease your symptoms. The Mediterranean diet, in particular, is an anti-inflammatory diet that is high in fish, olive oil, nuts, vegetables, and fruits while low in red meat. That being said, there are many other allergy-fighting foods you should include in your diet.
Read on for more details on what anti-inflammatory food remedies are best for natural allergy relief.
Signs And Symptoms Of Allergies
Allergy symptoms vary depending on the type of allergens.
Allergic rhinitis , for instance, is associated with the following symptoms:
- Sneezing
- Itchy eyes, nose, and throat
- Tearing eyes
An allergic food reaction may share some of the above symptoms, but it can also cause:
- Diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting
- Hives, eczema, or itchy skin
- Anaphylaxis, in which a narrowing of the airways makes it difficult or even impossible to breathe
A skin allergy or insect bite can cause the following at the site:
- Redness
The symptoms of a drug allergy may include:
- Hives
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Natural Ways To Combat Seasonal Allergies
If there is a second thing I despise after green tea, it has to be unwelcomed, unnecessary seasonal allergies. And look at the irony! I cannot even help myself with a cup of green tea as its taste makes me want to vomit. So my allergy journey has been quite hectic which is why I have the absolute liberty to comment on how these seasonal allergies can be dealt with. Rather a very kind friend of mine who happens to be one of the best allergy specialists in Rawalpindi Pakistan has been my complete encyclopedia of how seasonal allergies are regulated.
Natural Allergy Relief Options
What helps relieve allergies fast? Watching what you eat, getting plenty of fresh air and drinking enough water are some of the natural remedies that can relieve allergies by improving functions of the immune system.
It may take several weeks for your symptoms to subside, but they are likely to be better kept under control when you tackle the root causes. Here are nine ways to get natural allergy relief.
1. Eat an Anti-Inflammatory, Alkaline Diet
First and foremost, start eating an anti-inflammatory diet to reduce your risk for allergies and many other health problems. Caring for your body with nutrient-dense foods gives your immune system the ability to repair itself, bringing it back into balance so it can fight off common allergies in your environment.
Here are some of the best foods and ingredients to incorporate into your diet to help you beat allergies:
Although its not abundant in many foods, vitamin D is also important for immune function and may help manage allergy symptoms. In fact, certain studies have shown that children who live farther from the equator are more likely to develop allergies and suffer higher rates of hospital admissions due to allergic reactions.
You can get enough vitamin D by spending about 15 minutes in the sun most days without sunscreen and by eating foods like whole milk and some mushrooms for natural allergy relief.
2. Local Raw Honey
3. Apple Cider Vinegar
4. Quercetin
5. Neti Pot
6. Stinging Nettle
- Ginger
- Horehound
8. Probiotics
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Is It An Allergy Or Something Else
Like allergies, a cold and the flu affect the respiratory system and they share some symptoms, such as a runny nose and coughing.
One difference between them is the itchiness associated with many allergic reactions.
“Typically, an allergy will have itchiness of the eyes, nose, and throat,” says Bassett. “With a cold, you’re more likely to have a sore throat, decrease in appetite, and you just don’t feel well.”
Foods That Aggravate Allergy Symptoms
There are also foods that trigger allergy symptoms such as itching, sneezing, and a sore throat. What foods make allergies worse? It is best to avoid foods that cause inflammation, including fried and processed foods, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, and refined flours. You will also want to avoid any food allergies or sensitivities you may have, which may include foods like dairy, gluten, wheat, peanuts, corn, soy, citrus, or tomatoes.
Lets take a more detailed look at what foods cause inflammation and should therefore be avoided at all costs during allergy season.
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Potential Side Effects Of Natural Allergy Remedies
Several natural remedies for allergies can cause allergic reactions themselves, especially honey, peppermint oil, bromelain, and butterbur.
They also might not be safe for you to take because of your overall health or other medications or supplements you may be taking. You should always consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.
Aromatherapy And Essential Oils
Mint oils and heat from mint tea or inhaling mint steam help to relax airways and may make breathing easier.
Modern Essentials recommends the use of lavender, eucalyptus, rose or peppermint essential oils for natural allergy relief.
- For lavender and peppermint essential oil, dilute 1-3 drops of EO in 1 tablespoon of carrier oil. Apply to sinuses and bottoms of feet.
- For eucalyptus and rose essential oils, diffuse into the air or inhale oil applied to a tissue or cotton wick.
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Dietary Changes May Bring Relief
Certain foods can exasperate your allergic reactions, so its wise to take a look at your diet.
You can also take a test to determine which foods youre most sensitive too . But some common munchies tend to increase inflammation no matter your tolerance to them.
For instance, highly processed foods, sugar, caffeine, tobacco, many dairy products, and soy are highly inflammatory.
You can also enjoy probiotic-packed goods, including kefir and kombucha, and include plenty of fresh veggies, especially leafy greens, and lean protein sources. Learning how to cure allergies naturally has to include at least some minor dietary changes.
In addition, cutting back on red meat may help also.
In fact, though, a recent study by the National Institutes of Health found that people with high levels of trans oleic acid in their systems were 3 times more likely to suffer from hay fever.
What Type Of Asthma Do I Have
Allergic asthma causes inflamed airways to become irritated and over-respond when an irritant is inhaled, triggering an asthma attack. The muscles around the airways tighten, making the airways swell and overproduce mucus. The risk of developing asthma if you have allergic rhinitis is significant, Bassett says.
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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.
What Tea Is Good For Allergies
Nettle leaves are incredibly potent when it comes to regulating your allergies, so drinking nettle tea on a daily basis is recommended.
It works as an anti-inflammatory which effectively reduces the swelling in your nasal passages. But, according to WebMD, has also been associated with providing relief of symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes.
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Treating Allergies On The Skin
For allergic reactions that cause skin symptoms, including those associated with allergens found in animal saliva, poisonous plants, drugs, chemicals and metals, additional treatment options include:
- Topical corticosteroid creams or tablets. Corticosteroids contain steroids that reduce inflammation and itching. Mild forms of these creams can be found online, and a doctor can prescribe stronger versions.
- Moisturizing creams. Emollient creams with soothing ingredients, such as calamine can treat skin reactions.
- Bite or sting medication. Medication targeted to reduce allergic reactions to insect bites or stings have a similar effect to other allergy medications.
- Ice pack. Applying an ice pack wrapped in cloth to the area for 10- to 15-minute intervals can reduce inflammation.
