Seasonal Allergies
by
Dr. Michael Kane

One of the best things about spring and summer is the warm weather and the sun. In the excitement of spring many people have a dampened appreciation because of seasonal allergies. The common allergy symptoms of congestion, sneezing, itchy eyes and fatigue can be annoying for some or downright debilitating for others.  The common drugs to deal with allergies are not without side effects and interactions. There are some simple things that can be done that are not medication-related to help make the season less of a problem.

A good rinse…One of the most beneficial things is doing a nasal wash. This is a way to literally flush out the nasal passages with warm salt water. There are a number of ways to do this. One favorite is the Neti Pot: a ceramic pot with a long spout that fits into one nostril. You bend over the sink and let the warm salt water run in one nostril and out the other. While this may sound undesirable to some, it is effective in getting rid of those tiny particles of dust, pollen or other allergens that we inhale. Most people get used to it very easily.
 
Taking control….We have no control over the release of pollen, but often we can reduce the other allergens that might effect us like dust, dust mites, and molds. Air filtration can be expensive but helpful. A simple cost-effective solution is making a fan filter. Take a rectangular box fan and some cardboard framed furnace filters and duct tape. Tape the filters to the side of the fan that intakes the air. Let the fan run in your bedroom while you are not there and turn it off when you return. Replace the filter when it gets dirty.
 
Supplements to consider:
 
“Aller C” this a combination of a bioflavinoid called Quercetin, an enzyme called bromelain and Vitamin C.  Together they help prevent the release of histamine, and prevent and break down congestion, but without the side effects associated with anti-histamine drugs.
 
Stinging Nettles is a plant long associated with helping seasonal allergies.