As much as I love Spring, I dread it so much! Last Wednesday the sun was shining and the air was warm – I laced up my tennis shoes and headed out for a walk with a friend. Unfortunately, by the time I got home my eyes were watery, my throat itchy, and I was feeling like I was in a fog. When I did the “white glove” test on my car, I knew why – the yellow layer of pollen was unbelievable!

So, how can you enjoy the Spring and not suffer through allergies? Here are a few tips:

• Do not sleep with the windows open. Keep the house cool using the air conditioner and an air purifier.
• Shower in the evening so you don’t take the pollen from outdoors to bed with you via your hair, your clothes and skin.
• Wash and dry your clothes in a washer/dryer rather than hanging them on the line to dry.
• Wash bed linens frequently and use.
• If you have to do outdoor yard work such as mowing the grass or weeding, wear a mask and gloves.
• Avoid working outdoors in the morning when the pollen count is highest.
• Use a saline nasal spray to relieve sinus pain and to thin out mucus.
• A variety of foods such as cayenne, ginger, onion and garlic are also helpful for thinning mucus.
• Get extra rest and good nutrition to help boost your immune system.
• If all else fails, see your doctor for a prescription antihistamine or a recommendation for an over the counter option.

Personally, I have found that Similasan’s Eye Drops #2 Allergy Eyes works the best for soothing my itchy eyes and Natra-Bio Allergy Relief offers the most overall relief.

Posted on April 27th, 2008 by Char
Filed under: Allergies