SNEEZE! SNEEZE! Allergies, Allergies, something went wrong!
Spring is certainly my favorite season of the year. The fields are blooming and I am tempted to run and jump in that bed of flowers. But the result is always the same. SNEEZE!
I am talking about allergy, a condition in which the immune system reacts to a normally harmless substance in the environment, due to pollen, dust or certain food.
When the body comes into contact with an allergen, it can unexpectedly produce symptoms such as sneezing, itching and difficulty of breathing. Therefore, the nose is often sensitive and irritated from cleaning it so much, causing some discomfort.
How do we know if we have allergies?
As is well known, there are seasonal allergies (such as hay fever), food, medication or insect allergies. These allergies can range from mild to severe and can be triggered by different things depending on each individual.
I waited aprox. 20 minutes to see if there was a reaction to the allergen. If the result is positive, there is a red ball at the site of the bite, which can cause swelling and intense itching.
Treatment options may include not only medication to reduce symptoms, but also allergy shots (immunotherapy) or lifestyle changes, in order to avoid exposure to the allergen.
Hay Fever – The Common Allergy
Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, is a common type of allergy that affects the nose and throat. It is usually triggered by allergens in the air such as pollen, mold or dust.
Symptoms of hay fever may include: sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, itchy throat or mouth, cough, headache, fever, and so on.
Hay fever is usually treated with medication to reduce symptoms, such as antihistamines and decongestants. There are also treatment options such as injections for the allergy (immunotherapy) or lifestyle changes to reduce exposure to allergens.
Spring is a common time for hay fever. This can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive people, as many plants release pollen into the air during this season.
Tips to reduce the effects of allergies
Here are some ideas you can do to control your symptoms and change some habits during the spring:
1. Stay indoors on high pollen days
The amount of pollen in the air is generally higher on hot, dry, windy days. Therefore, keep windows and doors closed to reduce the amount of pollen entering your home.
2. Turn on the air conditioner
2. Turn on the air conditioner
Air conditioning helps to filter pollen and other allergens on the air, so use it as much as possible.
3. Wear a pollen protection mask
If you need to be outdoors on high pollen days, then consider using a pollen mask to reduce exposure to allergens.
4. Take allergy medication
Allergy to medication (or antihistamines) help to reduce symptoms, sneezing, itchy eyes, and a runny nose.
5. Avoid activities that produce pollen
5. Avoid activities that produce pollen
Avoid activities in places with a lot of pollen, in order to reduce hay fever symptoms. A pollen mask can be considered at these times.
6. Keep your home clean to avoid allergies
6. Keep your home clean to avoid allergies
Dust and vacuum the house regularly. In this way it helps to reduce the amount of allergens.
7. Take a shower before bed
A bath before bed not only helps to relax, but also helps to remove accumulated pollen in your bedroom environment and on your body.
8. Book a relaxing treatment with our massage therapists
8. Book a relaxing treatment with our massage therapists
For an advice book a relaxing treatment at home with our massage therapists. They help to improve your discomfort caused by allergies. See the benefits here.
While following these recommendations, it is important to get advice from a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment of hay fever.
Due to the tests I have done, my sneeze lessened, and I always have an antihistamine pill for prevention.
© Written by Sónia Cardoso SOKURA's CEO