Does your child come back sneezing after playing outdoors? Does spring bring along sneezing fits for you and your family? Do you find yourself battling a runny nose after the cleaning spree? Whether it's pollen or dust, food or insects, allergies rank among the top ten reasons for doctor visits in India, according to the International Journal of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, yet they are often not given the attention they deserve.

As per a 2020 study by Statista, more than 18 per cent of the Indian population suffers from various forms of allergies. 

Spring is synonymous with flower buds and blooming trees — but if you're one of the millions who have seasonal allergies, it can also be the start of constant sneezing, congestion and much more. But just because you’re dealing with allergies doesn’t mean you need to start introducing artificial flowers and grass in your space anytime soon. Trying practical but easy tips to manage allergies can help make a significant difference in your life. 

 

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Use Natural Disinfectants

Keeping your home spick and span is a fantastic way to dodge indoor allergens. But watch out for those harsh chemicals – they can really tick off your nasal passages and make your symptoms worse. Why not whip up some natural cleaners using everyday stuff like vinegar or baking soda?  Make a spray by mixing one part vinegar and four parts water and spray it on the floor, furniture and floorings. 

Eucalyptus oil has ranked among some of the most potent highly allergic house mite killers. You can experiment with this by putting several drops of eucalyptus oil in your laundry detergent. And when it comes to vacuuming, go for one with a HEPA filter to trap those pesky allergens. If your allergies are severe, consider delegating cleaning tasks to someone else.

Further, the American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI) suggests using an exhaust fan regularly to decrease moisture in your kitchen. Emptying your trash daily is another helpful practice. Storing food in sealed containers and promptly disposing of moldy or expired items is also advised by AAAAI for a healthier living environment.

 

Related Post: Cold, Flu Or Allergy? Managing Allergies At Work

 

Utilise Rinse Nasal Passages

A nasal rinse cleans mucus from your nose, easing congestion and itch.  Research suggests that sinus saline rinses, such as those from a neti pot, can enhance mucous clearance by approximately 30 per cent and can effectively flush out allergens. This may help to reduce inflammation and swelling. It's essential to note that the water used for nasal rinsing should be distilled, sterile, or previously boiled, as recommended by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Tap water is not safe for nasal rinses, as it may contain bacteria and protozoa, posing a risk of potentially serious infections in your nasal passages.

 

Try Hypoallergenic Pillows

Things like dust mites, pet dander, and mold love hanging out on your pillow, causing allergy symptoms all night. That's where hypoallergenic pillows come to the rescue. These pillows are made to lower exposure to dust mites, with special covers acting like a shield between you and those pesky allergens. Remember to change your pillow covers every week to keep things fresh. It's also a good idea to wash quilts and carpets regularly and use dustproof, mite-proof covers for your mattress and pillows to keep those allergens at bay.

 

Give Acupuncture a Try

Trying acupuncture for allergy relief might be worth a shot. Acupuncture has the potential to boost blood flow, and if you're dealing with nasal congestion due to allergens, promoting blood flow in that specific area could potentially ease your symptoms. In essence, it's a practice that can't do any harm and might just offer some help. So, if you're grappling with allergy struggles, giving acupuncture a try could be a worthwhile consideration.

 

Related Post: Massage These Acupressure Points To Ease Headaches

 

Keep Yourself Hydrated

Our bodies need water to work properly, and some animal studies hint that when we're dehydrated, there might be more histamines hanging around—those troublemakers that already go haywire during an allergic reaction. We all are aware of the fact that staying hydrated is just good for you overall. But, especially if you're popping antihistamines for your allergies, those can dry you out. So, keep sipping on that water to stay hydrated and feel good.
Drinking enough water can actually be a game-changer for allergy symptoms. When you're well-hydrated, it helps keep histamine levels in check, making those pesky allergic reactions a bit more manageable. So, keep that water bottle handy to tackle allergies with a cool and refreshing approach!

 

Related Post: Hydration 101: Before, During and After Exercise

 

Incorporate Probiotics

It's widely acknowledged that a robust immune system starts with a healthy gut. Over 80 percent of your immune function resides in your gastrointestinal (GI) tract. It's no surprise that ongoing research consistently links the use of probiotic supplements to a decreased risk of allergies.

Probiotics, which are "good bacteria" residing in your GI tract, play a crucial role in defending against infections, viruses, allergies, and more. They are increasingly recognized for their ability to address gut dysbiosis (an imbalance of bacteria in the microbiome) and consequently modulate allergic diseases.

As per a 2019 study in the journal Pediatrics, it was found that women who regularly take probiotics during pregnancy significantly lower their children's risk of developing allergies.

 

Drink Chamomile Tea

Chamomile tea can be a soothing ally for allergy relief. Packed with natural antioxidants, chamomile has anti-inflammatory properties that may help calm allergy symptoms. Enjoying a warm cup of chamomile tea can provide a relaxing and comforting experience, potentially alleviating sneezing, congestion, and other discomforts associated with allergies.

However, it's important to know that for some people, it can cause serious allergic reactions. These reactions can vary from skin rashes to something more severe like anaphylaxis. So, it is important to consult your doctor before incorporating it into your diet.

 

Need all your wellness solutions in one place? A whole new world awaits just a click away.

 

Implementing these actionable tips can significantly contribute to managing allergic symptoms and improving overall well-being. However, if despite these efforts, symptoms persist or worsen, it is crucial to seek professional medical advice. A visit to the doctor can provide a more personalised and effective approach to address severe allergies, ensuring proper diagnosis and tailored treatment for lasting relief. Prioritising your health and consulting with a healthcare professional remains a wise step towards a more comfortable and allergy-free life.

 

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