Ten Ways To Alleviate Seasonal Allergies Without Medication
When your immune system overreacts to an airborne substance that doesnt bother everyone around you, you have allergies. Pollen, dust mites, pet dander, mold spores and insect stings are the biggest culprits of seasonal allergies.
Increased pollen counts and higher temperatures across the globe are contributing to longer and more severe allergy seasons. This means many people whove never had an issue before are experiencing seasonal allergy symptoms for the first time. However, because these symptoms are so similar to the common cold, many just assume theyve caught a bug. If this sounds familiar, the best way to tell the difference between allergies and a cold is whether you have a fever. If youve been feeling unwell for 7 days or longer without a fever, you are probably suffering from seasonal allergies.
When you seek medical treatment for allergy symptoms, your doctor will typically prescribe medications or injections to help you feel better. But the good news is that there are a lot of things you can do at home to alleviate seasonal allergies without medication.
When To Seek Medical Treatment For Allergies
Are your child’s symptoms not letting up? Talk with a doctor, who may be able to diagnose allergies by examining your child and reviewing their medical history. In some cases, the doctor may order some blood or skin tests to make a diagnosis.
Various allergy medications can safely and effectively relieve your child’s symptoms. For example, some antihistamines block the immune system from releasing histamine into the blood, stopping allergic reactions before they start or slowing them down once they have begun. Steroids work to decrease the inflammation caused by the immune reaction; these can be in the form of nasal sprays, eyedrops, and pills or liquids taken orally. Allergy shots, the injection of tiny doses of an allergen, are helpful for some patients; they work by producing antibodies against the allergen, preventing severe allergic reactions in the future.
Perform Some Hot Pack
Well, hot pack helps soothe chest congestion and gives immense relief from the hoarse throat. Prepare a hot pack using roasted cloves, cardamom, and fenugreek. The mixture should be warm. Put the mixture in a thin cloth and keep it on your chest and throat for 5-6 mins. Do this process while going to bed at night to get rid of a cough fast.
You May Like: Can You Suddenly Develop Food Allergies
Use Caution With Medications
If you find that side effects from meds are too much to bear, you may be overusing them. First-generation antihistamines may make you drowsy because histamines are neurotransmitters that act on the brain to keep you awake. Dr. Ward recognizes that some patients overuse these medications, which can backfire. Be sure to follow the label directions.
Home Remedies For Allergies #10 Herbs
Herbs have a long history in providing relief fromallergy symptoms, including the awful sneezing, runny nose and constant itching. Some are very good remedies for hay fever and otherseasonal allergies, while others are not so good. Here are the ones that havebeen found to work the best
Stinging Nettle: This is probably the best herb fortreating allergy symptoms and really does work a treat! Its a powerful naturalantihistamine and doesnt cause drowsiness or dry mouth likepharmaceutical antihistamines do. Take 300 mgs of stinging nettle extract dailyfor best results.
Butterbur: Butterbur blocks antihistamine and naturallyreduces inflammation. Studies have found this herb to be effective at relievingthe most common allergy symptoms such as itchy eyes, sneezing, sinus congestionand headaches. In fact, a British study found butterbur to be just as effectiveas Zyrtec for relieving the symptoms of hay fever, but without the sideeffects. A word of caution though, because butterbur is part of the ragweedfamily, its recommended anyone allergic to ragweed or chrysanthemum avoid thisherb.
Nettle Leaf: This herb is also an excellent naturalantihistamine. You can either make up a nettle tea to drink twice daily or takenettle leaf capsules.
Green tea: Builds up the immune system strongly andblocks the production of histamine. Either drink 4-6 cups of green tea daily ortake green tea extract.
You May Like: Rash Due To Gluten Intolerance
Know And Avoid Your Triggers
It is absolutely simple but the question is how you can find out the triggers of your allergy. Some people even dont know what contributes to their irritating condition. It is until you recognize the causes that you are ready to remove it.
All the above home remedies for allergies are some useful tips to help your deal with some types of allergies. It is recommended that you should know some which are available for you to do at home in case the worst scenario may happen. And one more thing to keep in mind is that if you realize that you cannot control it anymore, it is time to see your doctor without hesitation.
What Will Make Bruises Go Away Fast
Bruises are commonly caused due to blunt trauma. When we hit a heavy object, the small blood vessels near the skin surface are broken and they bleed under the skin. The blood then leaks out of the vessel causing a bluish-black discoloration that slowly gets reabsorbed by the body and becomes yellowish green before finally disappearing. While this can take 24 to 48 hours for smaller bruises, some larger bruises can last up to 14 days.
Read Also: Robitussin Asthma
Other Steps You Can Take
Theres not much you can do to protect yourself from allergies when you are outside, but you should strive to make your home as allergy-free as possible. Combining a variety of different allergen-reducing techniques can make you more comfortable.
These techniques include:
- Cut down on pet dander. Consider a hypoallergenic dog or give your dog or cat weekly baths to reduce dander accumulation. If your pet has long hair, consider getting them shaved. Keep your dog or cat out of your bedroom.
- Eradicate dust mites. Keep your home clean and uncluttered, get rid of wall-to-wall carpeting, and put protective covers on furniture cushions to keep your home free of dust mites.
- Vacuum. Vacuuming twice per week with a vacuum containing a HEPA filter reduces airborne allergens.
- Dehumidify. Mold thrives in moist, warm environments. Air out your bathroom after showers or run a dehumidifier to suck moisture from the air.
- Get rid of houseplants. House plants make a great home for dust mites and mold spores. Reduce your number of house plants and get rid of dried flowers.
- Control cockroaches. Cockroaches are common in urban areas and in the southern United States. Set traps and avoid leaving out food.
Its not always possible to prevent allergy symptoms. Often, you can only treat symptoms as they arise. There are many prescription and over-the-counter options available, including:
- antihistamines
- antihistamine or corticosteroid eye drops
- oral decongestants
- corticosteroid asthma inhalers
So What Is The Best Allergy Medication
As described above, there are a few things to consider when selecting the right allergy medication. How quickly you need relief, your symptoms, side effects, and cost can all factor into your decision.
Fast-acting medications like decongestants and antihistamines work quickly if youre experiencing symptoms. And while antihistamines can be taken daily, decongestants should only be used as needed short term.;
Antihistamines and intranasal steroids can be good options for preventing symptoms from happening if taken daily before allergy season hits. Experts currently recommended intranasal steroids as first-choice treatment for people with persistent symptoms.
Lastly, keep in mind that not all antihistamines are created equal Benadryl can make you feel drowsy, whereas Allegra and Claritin may be less sedating. Since all antihistamines may cause some drowsiness, its best to see how you respond to them before engaging in activities that require alertness or concentration.
Read Also: Does Kaiser Cover Allergy Testing
Avoid Cigarette Smoke Other Fumes
Cigarette smoke can worsen some allergys indicators such as itchy, stuffy nose and watery eyes. Try not to breathe it and go to any places related to this detrimental ingredient. Other fumes such as aerosol sprays or smoke from wood-burning fireplaces are also something to avoid if you dont want your allergy to become chronic. An effective way to remove triggers from the air is to use air purifiers.
Eat Some Fresh Grapes
Much like pineapples and lemons, grapes are a great source of vitamin C that prevents you from bacteria causing cough and chest congestion. The natural expectorant properties of grapes make them excellent to cure a cough. You just need to eat some fresh grapes or you can even make some smoothie or fresh juice to cure a cough overnight.
Read Also: Can Green Snot Be Allergies
Risks And Side Effects
While most of the supplements and tips described above can provide;natural allergy relief safely, there are some precautions to keep in mind.
When allergies are mild or moderate, they are usually not very threatening and go away with time. However, severe allergic reactions can be dangerous and require medical attention.
Anaphylaxis is the term for;a;severe allergic reaction, which can happen due to contact with;food allergens, drugs/medications or;insect stings. Symptoms usually affect the lungs, blood vessels or heart and can include:
- trouble breathing
- rash
- vomiting
If you or your child experience these symptoms, head to your doctor or the emergency room right away to prevent complications.
What can you do for severe allergies? Your doctor may need to prescribe allergy shots or prescription asthma medications, such as bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroids.
Discuss these options with your health care provider, and consider trying the natural allergy relief remedies described above in addition to using medications.
How To Treat Cold Sore Pain
DIY remedies arent likely to make a cold sore disappear anyfaster. But there are things you can do to ease the pain while youre waitingimpatiently for it to heal.
Meanwhile, you dont want to inflict these sores on others. Skip the make-out sessions until youve healed and wash your hands often.
While cold sores are annoying in adults, the virus can be life-threatening in a baby, so take care to steer clear, Dr. Beers advises: As much as you might want to see your niece or nephew or grandbaby, please dont shower them with kisses if you have an active cold sore.
Read Also: Robitussin Allergy And Cough
Watch Out For Common Triggers
The season youre in largely dictates what might be causing an attack. For instance, in the late spring and early summer, grass pollen is highest. In late summer and early fall, theres weed pollen to worry about, notes the AAAAI. Mold can peak between July and October. Still, these allergens can be present year-round depending on where you live, making it difficult to understand what youre reacting to.
But Ive Got Allergies Now
I know 4 weeks+ is a long time to get your gut repair on when youve got symptoms now. Never fear! Theres help! to learn which of my;favorite herbal medicine and nutritional supplements for allergies work wonders for more immediate relief. Many of my patients who switch to them do not have to use OTC or prescription allergy meds anymore. If you dont do the 4R program, symptoms may come back, so youll need to keep treating with these natural supplements.
If you choose to do the 4R program, you may find that like me, changing your diet not only frees you from being dependent on a food industry that is not in our best health interest, but it also frees you from seasonal allergies 4Ever.
References
Don’t Miss: Can You Develop A Peanut Allergy Suddenly
Massage The Pain Away
A regular massage may seem like a luxury, but when a migraine strikes, it can be the best way to relive all that’s built up in your head.
Learn how to give yourself a calming and pain relieving massage, and you can prevent your migraines from growing worse, quickly. As you stretch and massage both the neck and the base of the scalp, you will stimulate blood flow and relaxation, sending the pain away from your head.
Check out Theory & Practice of Therapeutic Massage for more on how to relieve the pain of headaches and migraines through massage.
Image via Shutterstock
Why Youre Having An Attack
Why are you having an allergy attack? Simple answer: something in your environmenteither inside or outsideis triggering your immune system to overreact. Your body identifies the substance as foreign and ramps up production of antibodies called IgE, which then put a call out to release chemicals like histamines, setting off allergy symptoms, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology .
Recommended Reading: Are M&ms Safe For Peanut Allergies
How To Reduce Facial Swelling After Sleep
Waking up to a puffy face or lips is quite common for many people.
This can be the result of too much salt in your diet the night before, too much alcohol, dehydration, allergies, mold, dust, pollen, hormone changes, the way your face sleeps on the pillow, and good ole stress can increase inflammation which causes swelling, explains Nesheiwat.
To reduce morning facial swelling, consider trying one of Nesheiwats tips:
- Upon waking, wash your face with cool water to reduce swelling.
- Avoid salty foods and processed foods before you go to bed .
- Dont sleep with your makeup on because inflammation of the skin contributes to the facial swelling you see in the morning.
- Stay hydrated. Make sure youre drinking plenty of water all day long.
- Avoid excess alcohol.
- Dont sleep on your belly.
- Use cold cucumbers on the areas that are swollen. Cucumbers contain antioxidants, which help to soothe puffy eyes.
How To Reduce Facial Swelling Due To An Injury
Sustaining an injury to your face can result in swelling in the area where the injury occurred. Depending on the type and severity of the injury, you may also have swelling in other areas. These factors will determine the approach you take to reduce the swelling.
To reduce swelling due to an injury, the best thing to do is ice the area of injury as soon as possible, says Nesheiwat. The severity of the injury will determine your next steps. Nesheiwat says if you have any headaches, bruising, or bleeding, you need to see a doctor immediately.
External signs and symptoms, such as bruising or bleeding can also indicate an internal facial or head injury.
Recommended Reading: Reading Allergy Test Results
What Causes Hives
Generally speaking, hives originates mainly from a certain reaction when a few toxic substances penetrate into the human body and release histamine into the skin blood vessels. Although hives can be triggered by different causes it is agreed that allergies, stress, and infections are three major elements contributing to a potential risk of hives.
- Allergies: Ones body may sometimes find it hard to consume something which is considered as an allergen to the whole development of the body. Such things as nuts, berries, chocolates, shrimps, milk and other dairy products are often responsible for hives.
- Stress: Some people dont think of stress as a big problem. It is not until they are invaded by what stress causes that they take it seriously. It is also the same situation for hives. Dont wait until it happens to you, and then you know how detrimental stress is.
- Infections: It is not very widespread that you are exposed to infections resulting to hives including insect stings, bacterial infections, flower pollen, dust mites or sunlight exposure.
What Is A Bruise
A bruise, medically referred to as a hematoma, is caused when a part of the body gets banged or squeezed, causing the blood vessels to break and bleed just underneath the surface of the skin. When bruising first occurs, it is usually red in color due to the blood collecting at the site of the injury. Then, over the course of about 10 days to 2 weeks, the body begins to break down the pooled blood and reabsorbs it. This process causes bruises to change color before they eventually disappear. The lifespan of a bruise looks something like this
- Day 1: The bruise is red.
- Day 2 to 3: The bruise turns a blue or black color.
- Day 6 to 10: The bruise becomes more green or yellow.
- Day 10 to 14: The bruise is now yellowish-brown or light brown in color before fading completely.
Recommended Reading: What Is In Mucinex Allergy
Increase Your Turkey Intake
You’ve heard that eating turkey on Thanksgiving can make you sleepy thanks to its tryptophan. Did you know that it can also help you to find relief from migraine pain faster?
Tryptophan is an essential amino acid that stimulates dopamine in the brain. Dopamine is the “happy” chemical, one that helps us to feel great, and it is also a key component in the release of serotonin within the body. Serotonin works to relax the body, alleviating anxiety, worry, and negativity. Even more importantly, as tryptophan helps to produce dopamine and, in turn, serotonin, it relaxes the muscles surrounding the brain, soothing the capillaries of the scalp.
Image via Shutterstock
