Spring Allergy Symptoms
The prominent symptoms of spring allergies include:
- Runny nose
- Watery eyes
- Sneezing
- Coughing
- Itchy eyes and nose
- Dark circles under the eyes
Diagnosis of Spring Allergies
The following are the important diagnostic tools for spring season allergy:
- Skin Test
- Radioallergosorbent test or RAST
Treatment for Spring Allergy Symptoms
Antihistamines: Antihistamines are used to reduce sneezing, sniffling and itching, by lowering the histamine content (the chemical produced during allergic reaction by the body) in the body.
Decongestants: Decongestants clear the mucus accumulated in the nasal passages. They thus cure the swelling and relieve the congestion.
Antihistamine/Decongestants: Some times for obtaining better results a combination of antihistamine and decongestants is given.
Nasal Spray Decongestants: Nasal spray decongestants are used to relieve congestion and may clear clogging of the nasal passages faster than oral decongestants.
Cromolyn sodium nasal spray: This can help in preventing hay fever by obstructing the histamine release and thus prevent it from triggering allergy symptoms.
Eye Drops: Provide relief to itchy and watery eyes.
Please consult your doctor before using the above medications. Use drugs under strict medical supervision.
Natural Remedies for Spring Allergies
Butterbur: Herb butterbur (Petasites hybridus) is collected from a European shrub. One Swiss study has revealed that it has the same effectiveness as that of an antihistamine.
Quercetin: It is a natural flavonoid found in onions, apples and black tea. It is known for its antihistamine and anti-inflammatory properties.
Stinging nettle: It is an age-old and time-tested source of natural remedy. It is used for a whole range of chronic problems right from joint pains to prostate problems.
Nasal Irrigation: Nasal irrigation is a time tested, ancient system of sinus flush which has its roots in the traditional yoga practice of India.
Tips to Avoid Spring Allergies
Antihistamines such as Benadryl can cause drowsiness and impair driving and thinking. So, use Claritin, which does not cause sleepiness, or Zyrtec which makes you less drowsy.
Keep the windows and doors of your house closed. This will prevent outdoor molds and pollens from entering your home. The balmy spring weather may tempt you to open your windows. But, don’t give into the temptation and use your air conditioner instead.
Do not over-indulge in outdoor activity early in the morning as pollen counts are highest from 5 AM to 10 AM. Do not go out on windy days, as molds and pollen would be blowing about in the air.
When using your car, close the windows. This would keep out mold, dust and pollens.
If you have been outdoors, take a bath and change clothes as soon as you reach home. Pollen gathers in your hair and on your clothes. So, discard and wash your outdoor clothes as regularly as possible.
