THE birds are singing, the trees are bristling – spring is here! All through winter we anticipate the warm and welcoming winds of the new season. But for some South Africans, spring also heralds seasonal allergic rhinitis, commonly referred to as Hay Fever. Allergens are present all year round, but in spring it’s pollen from the grass and trees that cause the most discomfort.
Hay fever is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the nose and is activated when your immune system mistakenly identifies a typically harmless substance as an intruder. This substance is called an allergen. In order to prevent allergic reactions measures must be taken before symptoms start to show.
So here are a few hints and tips on how to avoid becoming a congested, itchy sneeze machine.
1. Take Your Medicine Early
If you are not sure which substances trigger your reactions specifically, visit your nearest doctor. Your doctor will decide on either skin tests or specific IgE blood tests, so that triggers may be identified and avoided. From there you can make an informed decision on whether or not you should use a nasal corticosteroid spray, a throat spray, or eye drops for treatment.
2. Go Natural
Not so keen on foreign chemicals and medical bills? Take natural supplements like nettles and a plant pigment called quercetin to relieve allergy-induced runny nose, watery eyes, hives, and swelling. Quercetin is commonly found in fruits and vegetables such as grapes, apples, and onions. It contains high levels of antioxidants capable of combating free radicals in the body.
3. Limit Pollen Exposure
Hiding in your house is not the only way to avoid the pollinated air. Try dusting your clothes off or changing your shirt if you can.
4. Commit to a Healthy Lifestyle
An adequate amount of exercise and a nutrient-rich diet can make all the difference when fighting allergies. Regular exercise can boost your immune system, and considering that Hay Fever is a chronic disease of the immune system, that afternoon walk or jog might just be all you need.
5. Spring Clean
Pollen is not only outdoors. If you’ve ever opened your front door, left a window open, or walked inside your house with shoes on, there is pollen in your home. A brisk vacuum and sweep can do wonders for indoor cleanliness, and it certainly will help maintain a healthy lifestyle. Allergens such as house dust and mould can accumulate quicker than you can imagine.
