Finding Seasonal Allergy Relief

by vic on June 24, 2009

Are you miserable in the spring? Experiencing stuffy nose, sneezing, and watery eyes in the fall? If so, there are different types of seasonal allergy relief available to you.

Spring is the worst season for allergies. Because all the plants, grasses, and trees are beginning to pollinate during this time, the pollen spore counts are extremely high. This is the main root of problems in the mild months. Pollen is lightweight and can be carried by the wind for hundreds of miles. So, you can still be affected even if you don’t live where it is more highly concentrated.

The main suspect in the fall is the ragweed that is pollinating. It begins in August and continues for a few months after. The majority of people that are bothered by spring pollens are susceptible to ragweed as well. Also, fall brings around leaves that pile up in the yard and is a haven for mold. Dust mites can also be bad when you first turn your furnace on, as they have gathered up during the summer.

Allergies show themselves in many different ways. The standard is sneezing and watery or itching eyes. Your throat may also burn or itch. You could feel be congested and have trouble breathing through your nose. Headaches are common due to congestion. Skin rashes or generally itchy skin can occur. If you have asthma, it may be aggravated by the allergens and worsened.

No cure exists for this annoying condition, but your symptoms can be alleviated and controlled through medicines. Antihistimines can cause drowsiness but conquer the histamines that the allergens cause. Decongestants relieve the congestion caused by the allergy. They can increase blood pressure and insomnia. Medicines that combine these two drugs are also on the market. All are found in form of pills, nose sprays, and eye drops. You could also get weekly allergy shots to increase your resistances.

If you want a more relaxed remedy, there are also natural treatments you can use. It is said that taking the butterbur herb every day can give the same result as an antihistamine without the drowsiness. A saline nasal spray can be made from salt and water. It can dissolve and drain mucous, as well as cleanse the nasal passages. Acupuncture quiets the immune system and is known to improve annoying results of allergies. There are also other herbs and supplements known to help.

Obviously prevention is the best thing you can do to improve allergic problems. Try to keep your air filters clean and your windows closed to keep pollen out. Dust, vacuum, and clean thoroughly and often, but wear a mask when you do it. Keep your pets clean so they don’t bring many spores in. Stay inside when counts are high. When you cut grass or work on leaves, wear a mask. Get a shower and fresh clothes when you are done.

Allergies can make you completely miserable and be very annoying and hard to live with. Almost anything inside your house or out can be a trigger, especially in certain months. Seasonal allergy relief can be found, though.