Seasonal allergies are also known as hay fever. These present allergy symptoms like the sneezing and the nasal congestion that occur at certain times in a year. It is usually due to release of spores by outdoor mold or the transfer of pollen grains from one plant to another.
The immune systems of people who are allergic to some of these substances trigger the release of mediators of inflammation such as histamine. This is a method that your body uses to fight toxins. However, this reaction is unnecessary in the cases of increased spores or pollen count and these inflammatory substances lead to some of the symptoms associated with hay fever. Here are some ways by which you can control seasonal allergies.
1. Sublingual immunotherapy
Sublingual immunotherapy uses the idea that exposure to an allergen will help your immune system get used to it and can help control symptoms in the future. It is done by placing a tablet containing this allergen under your tongue. You should increase the dose, each time you are doing it for maximum effect.
2. Control your environment
To achieve this, you first need to find out the exact substance that is causing you the allergy. You can do this by taking a skin or blood test when you visit an allergist. Once you’ve found out the exact cause, then you can take certain precautions. For example, if you are allergic to pollen, you should stay indoors on days when pollen grains are being transferred frequently. You may also close your windows to prevent the influx of allergens into your house.
3. Take antihistamines
Antihistamines are the medications that inhibit release of the histamine, an inflammatory substance. You should visit your doctor before taking these drugs because of their side effects.
4. Herbs
Certain foods like the onion and the grape contains a flavonoid known as quercetin which blocks the release of histamine. A herb known as the butter-bur blocks release of another inflammatory substance known as the leukotriene. You should also take the citrus fruits because of their high Vitamin C. Vitamin C helps the quercetin function properly and also boost your immune system.
Make some lifestyle changes like the showering often and staying the hydrated to help prevent the seasonal allergies. You should also consider these 4 foods that can help you fight seasonal allergies.
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