Do you often have a runny nose, watery and itchy eyes during certain seasons of the year? If you do, you are probably allergic to particular things. For instance, you might be allergic to grass, pollen, trees, or weeds. The allergic reactions caused by these allergens can make you feel uncomfortable. Therefore, it is important to look for ways through which you can combat them. Below are some of these ways.
1. Avoid Your Allergens
Try to stay away from what give you allergies. For instance, if you are allergic to pollen, keep your windows and doors shut during windy seasons to block pollen from entering your house. Also, stay indoors when it is windy and during morning hours because pollen levels are high.
You should also avoid carrying out activities that expose you to your allergens. For instance, you should not mow your lawn, pull weeds or carry out other gardening activities if you are allergic to pollen. In case you are forced to do any of them, wear a pollen mask when carrying them out.
Dusting your household furniture using a damp cloth and cleaning using a vacuum cleaner will also help you. If you do not have a vacuum cleaner, wear a mask when cleaning to block dust particles from entering your nostrils. You should also shower before going to bed to rinse off any dust or pollen on your hair or skin.
Cleaning your HVAC system’s air ducts can also help with allergic reactions since it is in these ducts where allergens such as pollen are caught. When cleaned well, good quality air that is free from allergens will circulate inside your home. However, it would be best if you let professionals do the cleaning. For instance, if you live in the Ottawa Capital Region, look the best duct cleaning Ottawa professionals.
2. Take Allergy Medicines
You can take antihistamines to relieve the symptoms of an allergic reaction. These medicines prevent the action of the chemical produced by the body in response to an allergic reaction. You can take drowsy or non-drowsy antihistamines before coming into contact with an allergen. In this case, the medicines will prevent an allergic reaction from happening. You can also take them afterward to reduce the severity of the allergic reaction.
It is advisable to take drowsy antihistamines if you are suffering from an allergic reaction that is stopping you from sleeping. Otherwise, take non-drowsy antihistamines. A pharmacist can advise you on the best antihistamines to take.
Before taking these medicines, ensure that you know how to take them, whether with food or water. Also, ensure that you know when to take them and their dosage. Your weight and age will determine this.
You can also take immunotherapy tablets three months before an allergy season to combat allergic reactions. When you take them, they will introduce minimal amounts of specific allergens under your tongue. These allergens will boost your body’s tolerance to allergens and prevent allergic reactions in the future.
3. Exercise Regularly
You can combat seasonal allergies by exercising. When you exercise, blood will flow smoothly throughout your bloodstream. As the blood flows, any allergens in your body will also flow, preventing the inflammation of delicate tissues. Your body will later eliminate the allergens through your kidneys or skin, and hence allergic reactions will not occur.
Before going out to exercise, use a saline spray, an antihistamine, or a decongestant to clear your respiratory system. If you are asthmatic, use your inhaler just before you go out to exercise. Also, ensure that your exercising space is free from pollutants, allergens, and irritants.
When exercising, focus on exercises that improve your breathing. For instance, focus on Pilates and Yoga as they promote deep breathing. These exercises will make your lungs and heart stronger and more resistant to allergens. After exercising, take a steamy shower followed by a cold one. The temperature change will help loosen mucus in the bronchial tract and sinuses and hence promote better breathing.
Conclusion
Seasonal allergies should not get you worried since you are not the only one affected by them. However, it is good to try to combat their symptoms. Otherwise, they will make you feel uncomfortable. Exercising, staying away from your allergens, and taking certain medications can help combat these allergies.
