An allergy occurs when the immune system of a person reacts to something that is really normal (and in most cases, insignificant) for most people. The body overreacts which causes many different problems to one’s body including sneezing, coughing, breathing problems, itching / rash, irritation, etc.
Spring, although celebrated as the season of joy and happiness, is when the curse of allergies is at its very peak. Millions of people worldwide are affected by pollen during spring, and many even are unfortunate enough to be hospitalized due to this epidemic. Below are some handy tips to ward off unprecedented allergies anytime:
1. Clean your nose regularly: Studies have shown that people who rinse their nose regularly are able to remove any pollen or irritating material that may trigger allergies. For this, sea salt water is preferred, as studies have proven that salt water brings about better results than your average nasal sprays, which also sometimes cost a fair bit of cash.
2. Take anti-allergy medicines: Some medicines are specifically created to cure people of their allergies by blocking the growth of harmful substances. These over-the-counter medicines help in preventing development of histamine, which is the main cause of allergies for most people. However, if one is unable to be cured of their allergy even after usage of these, he may consult a doctor for better treatment.
3. Nasal sprays or eye drops: There are mainly two types of nasal sprays: curative and preventive. Curative nasal sprays are effective by swelling the nose and relieving the person from irritation. Preventive nasal sprays, however, block any harmful material which may develop and cause allergies. Nasal sprays tend to be more effective as compared to medicine, since they are delivered directly to the point where irritation would be taking place. Eye drops are also available to relieve the pain and irritation from allergies, but require prescription from the doctor.
4. Use decongestants: In many cases, decongestants also help in curing/preventing allergy-related problems, as they contain an anti-allergic
called pseudoephedrine. Most of them are available and do not require any prescription. However, in many cases, the pharmacist may ask for an ID during the purchase of such medicines. Decongestant nasal sprays are also effective but not recommended for use over long-term.
5. Use air conditioning instead of fresh air: Although not cost effective, it is recommended that one may close all windows and turn on the A/C. This prevents harmful materials from the surroundings, such as pollen, to enter the premises, and hence prevents health problems.
Take care of your surroundings and diet
1. Use a HEPA filter: No matter how much one tries to keep his/her household free of any allergens, they always seem to find a way to irritate us. In order to get rid of the problem, install the high efficiency particulate air filter (HEPA) on household appliances such as vacuum cleaner and A/C. This would help you get rid of the loopholes through which pollen and other allergic materials seem to enter your surroundings.
2. Yoga: Yoga not only helps in strengthening the immune system, it also allows oxygen to enter and exit more effectively, thus allowing better 
breathing. People who have allergies tend to have an imbalanced immune system. To calm the system down and help restore balance, yoga can play an evident role.
3. Acupuncture: Although a center of much debate and controversy, acupuncture is also considered one of the effective methods to cure or prevent allergies. The Chinese method has provided results that have been impressive for many as it can provide relief from the inflammatory effects of allergies.
4. Diet: Gluten is regarded as one of many different causes of allergies. These are normally present in wheat, oats and dairy. Preventing the use of such products would produce effective results and in turn, reduce the chances of allergies.
Cures from Mother Nature
1. Butterbur: Regarded as one of the best natural remedies, butterbur reduces swelling of nasal areas, thus allowing relaxed breathing. One major advantage it possesses is that it does not cause any drowsiness, which may cause an interruption in one’s daily routine.
2. Quercetin: When used as a supplement, quercetin provides an effect that blocks the development and growth of harmful bacteria causing the allergies, without causing any side-effects. They are present in most fruits and vegetables.
3. Bromelain: When jointly used with quercetin, the bromelain enzyme provides relief by reducing the swelling of nasal passages and curing the runny nose. This substance is also present in some fruits alongside quercetin, creating a strong and effective natural cure for stubborn allergies.
Allergies are a major global epidemic, and while this is something that we will never get rid of, it can be prevented or cured with the help of a few simple techniques. Either use of natural remedies, medicinal products or even with some lifestyle changes, you can successfully stay allergy-free in heavy springtime or winters and make the most of the season and your precious time – without a single horrible sneeze or wheeze.
Johanna Oosterwijk ND
Shambhala Wellness
