Seasonal Allergies

Do you wake up in the morning with a congested or runny nose? Are your eyes dry, watery or itchy? Seasonal allergies can be frustrating and bothersome during one’s day. Allergy season comes early in the spring and fall seasons and can last throughout the periods. While many are genetically predisposed, sensitization to a particular allergen many arise unknowingly. Symptoms are not debilitating but can get in the way of your daily routine. Understanding the body’s response to allergens during seasons and changing certain habits in your routine can help decrease symptoms and keep your nose and your Summer schedule clear.

Symptoms and Causes

In sensitized individuals, allergens such as pollen trigger the body’s immune system and produces IgE antibodies. These antibodies cause your body’s mast cells and basophils to release histamine which inflame the airways and cause swelling, irritation and excess production of mucus. Symptoms are caused by the immune system’s overreaction in response to pollen and other airborne particles. Additionally, allergies may be caused from common-household allergens, such as dust mites, insect bites, and chlorine in pool water.

How to Lessen Symptoms and Inflammation

Reducing exposure to allergens is one of the best ways of curtailing symptoms. There are numerous natural remedies to stabilize mast cells and reduce histamine levels. Increasing your daily intake of Vitamin C as well as eating foods high in flavonoids, such as citrus fruits and vegetables, as well as eating less foods that are processed and high in sugar. Apart from natural treatments Nasal steroid sprays are available without a prescription, and help with runniness and congestion, in addition to oral medications that aid in lessening symptoms, inflammation. If symptoms remain after attempting these strategies, it is time to visit an urgent health care center to target the allergic reaction through lab work and immunotherapy. Lastly, eliminating stressors and managing stress help with quelling symptoms.