According to Pollen.com, if you live in the central US, you’re in the “medium-high to high pollen zones” and if you’re not taking measures to manage your allergies, you may be pretty miserable right now.
Years ago, my sister lived in very rural country and her allergies would get so bad, she gave up on the Kleenex® and just carried a cloth baby diaper.  She was miserable.  I wish I knew then what I know now about how to help seasonal allergy sufferers.
Since May is National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month, it’s a good time to address this issue so we can arm ourselves with natural, drug free, ways to combat allergies. As we’ve mentioned in an earlier asthma article, there’s a direct known correlation between asthma and allergies.
The Prevelance Of Seasonal Allergies
From JonBarron.org, I learned one out of every five people now have a confirmed allergy leading to 17 million trips to the doctor annually and yielding at least 30,000 trips to the emergency room.
Dr. Barron goes on to say that at least one third of allergy sufferers aren’t satisfied with the medication they take because they don’t provide enough relief and the relief isn’t fast enough.
Pollen and animal dander aren’t the only things that can trigger allergies. In an article from Natural Solutions Magazine, written by Dr. Walter Crinnion, ND, it says,
“Dust is considered a common allergen, but what most people don’t realize is that dust in the home is the major carrier for chemical toxins in the air. Multiple toxins, commonly found in the home, have been strongly linked to the development of allergies and the worsening of allergies. Typical culprits include new paint (especially on woodwork), new furniture (desks, bookshelves, cabinets, etc. that are made from pressboard), smoking in the home, plasticizers (from shower curtains and all fragrances) and the presence of mold. If you can reduce your exposure to these compounds, your likelihood of experiencing indoor allergies drops considerably.”
I also learned that dust mites (yuk!) also a significant allergen, are more prevalent in the summer here in Wisconsin, because they like warm, humid weather!
How Nasal Flushing Can Help Seasonal Allergies
The first natural remedy for allergies that Dr. Barron recommends is nasal flushing. He explains,
“There is an alternative that in some cases works better, faster, cheaper and safer; nasal flushing. This method, also known as nasal irrigation, refers to a technique of rinsing both nostrils out with a solution – usually water with Kosher, non-iodized salt – that loosens and removes mucous. The solution also soothes irritated membranes, creates an inhospitable environment for bacterial growth and allergens, and can reduce swelling. Although many people know about using nasal flushing for sinusitis, few regularly irrigate to keep seasonal allergies at bay.”
The Natural Healthy Concepts store has everything you need to battle that nasty pollen with nasal irrigation. Our Himalayan Institute supplies, including the neti pot. If the idea of “flushing” your nostrils doesn’t trip your trigger, or you don’t have the time for it, you can always use a fast and convenient nasal spray like Xlear made with xylitol.
Dr. Barron’s article also comments on the potential side effects of allergy medications. If you know someone taking these products on a regular basis, please share this with them.
Dr. Barron said,
“… not only are allergy and sinus medications often ineffective in treating symptoms – they can have side effects ranging from simply annoying to absolutely frightening. Sure, the label may display a warning about drowsiness or dizziness, but the warning doesn’t usually broadcast the fact that (depending on the formula) sinus and allergy meds can cause depression, anxiety, impaired thinking, vaginal dryness and diminished sex drive, increased appetite, insomnia, and infertility. Even the so-called benign second-generation allergy medications such as Claritin and Allegra can have potentially serious side effects, including cardiac irregularities, hypertension, loss of consciousness, jaundice, seizures, and blockage of blood flow to the heart.”
I feel like that’s enough to make anyone want to quit their allergy meds cold turkey!
Do your allergies impact your quality of life?
Do you have a natural solution you’d like to share? Leave a comment and let the world of allergy sufferers know.
You can also get some helpful information from this infographic showing you what foods to eat to fight seasonal allergies and how detox can help fight allergies, too!
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