Combating Seasonal Allergies

Spring is a wonderful time of year. The warm temperatures and flowers in full bloom after winter raise everyone’s spirits. But nothing can dampen those spirits faster than a long bout with seasonal allergies.

According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, several factors can delay allergy relief this spring. Advice from their experts include:

1. Know Your Fruits and Vegetables – Many people with seasonal allergies also have food allergies because of a shared protein between them and pollen. Eating certain foods can cause the same symptoms as the pollen allergy. Below is a quick reference chart on the similarities between food and pollen allergies.

Pollen Allergy Foods That Can Cause Symptoms

Birch or Alder Tree: Apples, Celery, Cherries

Grass: Tomatoes, Potatoes, Peaches

2. Use The Proper Air Filter – Some common, inexpensive central furnace/air conditioning filters and ionic electrostatic room cleaners actually release ions into the air, which can be an irritant. Whole-house filtration systems work better if the filters are changed properly.

3. Don’t Open the Windows – Pollen can drift inside when windows are open and settle into the carpet and furniture, meaning there’s no escape from the irritant.

4. Don’t Fight Alone – Many people wait until the allergy symptoms have already hit them before getting medication. Starting preventive medications before the season gets underway can lessen your discomfort once symptoms arrive and can sometimes prevent symptoms altogether.

Other great tips and information can be found online at http://www.aaaai.org.

And, be aware that colds, other infections and allergies often have similar symptoms. If you begin to feel worse rather than better after taking the above precautions, have a fever or develop other symptoms on top of the common watery eyes, itchy throat, cough and sneezing that come with allergies, you may have something more than a seasonal allergy. Then it’s time to see your healthcare provider. A simple solution: visit The Little Clinic to find out which one you are suffering from and obtain a treatment plan.