Step outside or look out the window and your sinuses might retract in fear. Spring is beautiful, but for some it means the onset of seasonal allergies, itchy eyes, sneezing, congestion and a runny nose. No fun! Here are some tried-and-true tips for managing the symptoms of pesky hay fever.
First and foremost, visit your healthcare provider for an appropriate diagnosis. There is no substitute for expert medical advice.
Little culprits
Seasonal allergies occur when the body’s immune system makes an oversized reaction to something in the environment, like plant pollen or mold spores. Essentially, the body creates too many histamines resulting in symptoms that make us miserable. In most of the United States, spring allergies begin as early as February and run through the late summer, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. If you or someone in your home is suffering, check the pollen report for your area.
Breathe easy
Air purifiers with HEPA filters make your home a safer haven by helping eliminate allergens like dust, pollen, mold spores and pet dander. The Scentsy Air Purifier creates a clean environment that is also beautifully scented. Scentsy Air Purifiers include a HEPA H13 filter which removes at least 99.95% of airborne particles.
Healthy you
Take a holistic look at your overall health. Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet that includes foods high in vitamin C, omega-3 fatty acids and quercetin (found in things like onions and grapes) can help reduce symptoms. Some studies suggest that sourcing and eating local honey (derived from local plant pollen) can have a big impact.
One of our body’s best defenses against allergies is a strong immune system. Shore up your defenses by getting plenty of sleep, exercising and reducing stress.
Setting a consistent sleep schedule will boost your overall mental and physical health. Check out these classic Scentsy suggestions to help you unwind and get enough nightly z’s.
Find a few moments to work in a bit of exercise. It doesn’t have to be a marathon to create benefits. Just 30 minutes at least three days a week will make a huge difference. Here are some easy ideas from the American Heart Association.
Reduce stress to improve your health. Experts suggest a wide variety of self-care techniques, from yoga to journaling.
Reduce triggers
Follow the local pollen count and air quality so you can be prepared to reduce exposure to the allergens that trigger your symptoms. When it is dry and windy, stay indoors. If you’ve been outside, wash your clothes and shower off pollen from your skin and hair. It might be helpful to wear a face mask during outdoor chores. Pollen counts are highest in the morning and lowest right after rain.
Medical experts also suggest rinsing your nasal passages using a sinus irrigator. Make sure to use purified water and saline solution (regular tap water hurts!) to cleanse allergens from your mucus membranes. Follow these safety tips!
Share your best allergy season remedies in the comments!
