You Don't Have To Suffer From Hay Fever

As winter draws to an end, the warmth of spring signals the start of a rather annoying time for those with hay fever. This condition occurs as a result of an allergic reaction to pollen which results in itchy eyes and runny noses. The fine pollen from wind-pollinated plants is the main culprit, in which the source may vary from region to region. Examples of pollens that trigger pollen allergy include birch, hazel,horse chestnut, olive, poplar, and some grasses like rye, timothy and a variety of weeds.

People who suffer from hay fever tend to have an over sensitive immune system. Many have multiple allergies to things like animal fur, mold, dust, chlorine, detergent, perfumes, etc. When the pollen or allergens are breathed in, they trigger an immune reaction and histamine is released causing itching, swelling and increased mucus production. Runny nose and watery eyes are often accompanied by a sore throat, cough and even skin irritation for some people.

There are many options available for the treatment of hay fever, depending on the severity of the allergy. These include antihistamines, decongestants and nose sprays that provide symptomatic relief. Antihistamines and decongestants may cause drowsiness, though today new non-sedating solutions are more commonly used. Some nose sprays may contain steroids, which have to be directly applied through a nozzle into the nostrils over an extended period of time before the effects are felt. If there are breathing complications due to hay fever, inhaled bronchodilators are prescribed along with other medications. Eye and eardrops may be prescribed to provide further relief. If the allergy is severe, recurring allergy shots may be recommended for the treatment of hay fever, but they have to be taken 4 to 6 months prior to hay fever season.

For a person afflicted with hay fever every season, there are some simple but effective precautions that can be taken to prevent these allergies. Spring cleaning the house helps, though a mask may be necessary in case of a severe dust allergy. The carpets, curtains, soft furnishing should be vacuumed often. Mold from mattresses, sofas, corners should be removed. It would help to cover mattresses with a plastic cover. Hard floors should be swabbed everyday. Keeping the windows shut during the pollen season or central air-conditioning plus the use of air-purifiers can be very helpful. Carpets and other dust collectors should ideally not be used. Having more showers a day helps in removing pollen from the skin and hair can be useful in the treatment of hay fever.

For those who suffer regularly, there are some potential long-term solutions for the treatment of hay fever in Homeopathy, Ayurvedic, Chinese and other traditional forms of medicine. It is best to visit a licensed or certified practitioner for treatment. Always remember to notify your primary care physician if you are under their care for hay fever or any other condition to ensure there are no potential interactions between existing medications and alternative medicine treatments.

For supportive supplements that may help:

There is considerable interest in using vitamin C for allergies such as allergic rhinitis (hay fever). The research indicates that low vitamin C levels are associated with higher histamine levels. Furthermore there is also some evidence that vitamin C might also have weak antihistamine properties. Some people with hay fever have been advised to take vitamin C split into multiple small doses throughout the day to ensure maximum availability during pollen season.

Zinc is a biologically essential trace element and is the second most abundant trace element in the body. Though most Americans have sufficient zinc levels, some with allergic rhinitis might requires a small supplementation as zinc plays a considerable role in immune function, wound healing and is found in more than 300 enzymes essential to our body's various biochemical functions including inflammatory control.

Quercetin is one of several flavonoids (a plant chemical) that have profound effects on mast cells and basophils which mean that it might be useful in some allergies, such as hay fever. Quercetin has multiple effects on this condition as it can help prevent the release of histamine and may even stabilize cell membranes so that they are less sensitive to allergens.

Grape seed products contain many types of plant chemicals called flavonoids. Grape flavonoids have a wide variety of effects including antioxidant and vasodilation. Proanthocyanidins from grape seed extract also seems to increase total antioxidant activity in healthy people and more importantly resent research also suggests that the grape seed catechins might slow down histamine release.

Other Self-care Solutions

Essential oils may be useful in the treatment of hay fever. Inhaling a few drops of lavender oil splashed on a handkerchief, may help with clearing the nasal passages. Eucalyptus oil in a steam inhaler also helps. Aromatherapy has been known to calm a person down and help in proper breathing. A few drops of castor oil in half a cup of water first thing in the morning is said to keep allergies at bay. So is smearing a bit of Vaseline in both the nostrils.

Ginger is known to bring relief from hay fever. Ginger tea with a little honey soothes the throat and opens the nasal passages. It also helps to increase the intake of liquids in order to replace lost liquids. Massage can bring some temporary relief to the sinuses and may even help in clearing them during acute attacks. Deep breathing exercises and yoga are said to have brought relief to some people.

So with just a few precautions in limiting exposure and providing a little support thorough supplements and exercise, spring can still be a time of joy as we celebrate Mother Nature's cycle of renewal!