If you have seasonal allergies, like pollen allergies, you probably are anxious about the arrival of spring. The need for warmer days and of going outside can easily transform itself into a fear of allergy symptoms. It is obviously not pleasant to have irritated and red eyes, a blocked nose, or a never-ending need to sneeze. To help you out, here are 10 tips to follow!
1. Avoid the great outdoors
Unfortunately, the first solution is not complicated, you need to stop going on walks, running or picnicking in the great outdoors on very hot days.
The worst time to go outside: just before a thunderstorm, the pollen will be even more present.
2. Buy an air cleaner
Why not install an air cleaner in your house? This device will allow you to breathe better all while removing most of the allergens in your home. It is a great buy for anyone with seasonal allergies.
3. Wash your hair
If you went outside and pollen attached itself to your hair, it will end up finding itself on your pillowcase during the night and your ordeal will continue even during your sleep.
Try to change your clothes also when you go back to your house to avoid living with the symptoms all day long.
4. Use a saline solution
Cleaning your nose with a saline solution is an affordable and simple way to relieve inflamed nasal canals because of an allergy.
5. Privilege natural antihistamines
You can find natural antihistamines in onions, garlic and citrus. They help reduce allergy symptoms.
6. Avoid drying your clothes outside
You don’t want pollen to hang on to your clothes. It is important to avoid crying your clothes outside (especially in the evening). Hang our clothes inside or put them in the dryer.
7. Try acupuncture
When medication or natural ingredients don’t help reduce your symptoms enough, acupuncture can also be a possible solution. According to a German study, people that get acupuncture are less prone to get intense allergy symptoms.
German researchers examined 422 people allergic to pollen by dividing them into 3 groups; one group taking antihistamines and also doing acupuncture. Two months after the experiment, they noticed that this group had less allergic symptoms than the other groups.
8. Opt for desensitization
Desensitization is sometimes the only solution in the worst of cases. This consists of receiving small doses of allergens for three years so the body can get used to it and not induce more reactions when in contact with pollen.
A skin test allows detecting which pollen you are allergic to. After, you need to take the proper treatment by injections by your physician. Since recently, there exist tablets to melt under your tongue, but it is only for allergies related to grass.
9. Close your windows
It is obviously enjoyable to open your windows in the summer. But, if you have seasonal allergies, you should think of installing an air conditioner in order to keep your windows closed. You will avoid getting tons of pollen inside your house.
10. Wear sunglasses and a hat
This very simple tip can help you avoid many hassles if you are allergic to pollen. In fact, by wearing sunglasses, you will avoid accumulating pollen deposits in your eyes. Also, hats protect your hair from pollen on birch trees or grass.
11. Keep away from tobacco and smoke
Not only is smoking bad for your health, but it can also aggravate your allergic reactions. You have one more reason to stop smoking or to never smoke again!
12. Don’t open your windows when you’re in your car
This is another very simple tip, but a very effective one. When you drive with your windows closed, you avoid getting pollen in your eyes as well as accumulating some in your car. Sneezing while you’re driving isn’t pleasant nor secure…
13. Don’t go swimming
Even if swimming is one of the joys of summer, studies have shown that chlorine is bad for the mucous membrane of the nose as well as for the eyes. Consequently, if these membranes are weakened, they can be attacked more easily by allergy pollens. It is best to avoid pools and its chlorine filled water.
14. Avoid mowing the lawn
If you’re stuck with seasonal allergies, avoid mowing the lawn and walking near grass that has just been mowed. Why? Because this could intensify your allergies. Try to hire someone to do it.
15. Try essential oils
These oils soothe inflammation, boost the immune system and eliminate blocked sinuses. The following 5 essential oils are the best you can use in case you have allergies. This is a good alternative to taking medication.
16. Lavender oil
This oil has powerful anti-inflammatory properties and acts as a natural antihistamine so it provides relief and soothes allergies.
- When you notice the first symptoms of allergies, rub several drops between your palms and keep them close to your nostrils.
- Take a deep breath.
- You should also carry several cotton balls with lavender oil with you during allergy season.
17. Lemon oil
This oil supports the lymphatic system and thus helps the body fight against respiratory diseases. This stimulates the immune system and prevents the growth of bacteria. To get rid of allergy triggers in the air, you should diffuse some around the house.
- In a glass of water, add 1-2 drops of lemon essential oil and drink to regulate pH levels in the body.
- To kill bacteria located on curtains, sheets, carpets and furniture, add this oil to your regular laundry detergent.
18. Mint oil
The European Journal of Medical Research published a study which showed that this essential oil has powerful anti-inflammatory effects and can alleviate the symptoms of chronic inflammatory disorders (allergic rhinitis and bronchial asthma). It acts as a powerful expectorant and thus relieves allergies, sinusitis, colds and cough.
- To unblock the sinuses and clear a sore throat, you must diffuse 5 drops. This will relax the nasal muscles and they can clean the mucous membranes and allergens.
- To relieve inflammation, take 1-2 drops of peppermint oil.
19. Basil oil
The anti-inflammatory properties of basil essential oil effectively fight allergies and destroy bacteria and viruses. This oil also treats pain, fatigue and inflammation. The powerful antimicrobial properties destroy bacteria and mould that lead to asthma.
- To soothe inflammation, add 1 drop of basil oil to your meal, like in a soup or dressing.
- To stimulate the immune system, apply it diluted with equal parts coconut oil on the bust, back of the neck and temples.
20. Tee tree oil
Tea tree oil quickly kills pathogens in the air that lead to allergies so you should release it at home to get rid of mould, bacteria and fungi in the air. Its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties also soothe irritated skin.
- You can apply it to the skin to treat rashes.
- Simply add 2-3 drops to a clean cotton ball and apply it to the area.
- For sensitive skin, be sure to dilute it with some carrier oil such as coconut oil.
Sources :
- M6info
- Playbuzz
- cnewsmatin.fr