Tips For Coping With Summer Allergies

For many people, summer is the time of year when they can finally enjoy the outdoors and partake in all of their favorite activities. However, for those with allergies, summer can be a difficult time. Pollen levels are at their peak, and allergens are everywhere. If you’re struggling to cope with your allergies this summer, here are a few tips that may help.

Try to stay indoors as much as possible during the daytime when pollen levels are at their highest. If you have to go outside, wear a mask or keep your mouth and nose covered. You should also shower and change your clothes as soon after being outdoors as possible to remove any allergens that may be clinging to you.

Keep your windows closed and run an air conditioner in your home or car to filter out pollen and other allergens. Be sure to clean the filter regularly. If you’re planning on spending time outdoors, try to do so in the early morning or evening when pollen levels are lower. And lastly, make sure you’re taking your allergy medication as directed and see your doctor if your symptoms aren’t improving. With a little effort, you can still enjoy summer despite your allergies.

What is an allergic reaction?

Allergies kick in when our immune system reacts to what it perceives as a threat. In response, it produces histamine in abundance. In the case of hay fever, the allergic reaction occurs when pollen particles come into contact with the lining of the nose.

The immune system detects a threat and goes all out to wash it out the way it came. As soon as pollen is airborne the hyper-vigilant immune system in question sends out a decree to “let the streaming commence.”

Why summer?

Hay fever symptoms arise during the summer months because this is the time when pollen and spores are airborne. Rainy days can give relief as pollen and spores are washed to the ground and held captive in a damp environment before things dry up and they get to float around again.

Some hay fever sufferers find that their symptoms persist after the typical pollen season is over. Irritants like tobacco smoke, perfume, and fluctuating temperatures can aggravate an already sensitive system and lead to continued irritation.

For itching eyes

Ayurveda (the traditional Indian system of natural medicine) has a simple kitchen remedy for itching eyes. Soak a tablespoonful of coriander seeds in a cup of boiling water, cover, and leave to cool. Once completely cool, dip a sterile gauze pad in the liquid and then lay back with it resting on your closed eyes.

Don’t stress

Summer allergies or “hay fever” loves heat. Be it the weather or our internal thermostat, symptoms thrive when we’re too hot. While it’s not easy to keep cool, calm, and collected when everything is itching and irritated, stress is only going to make it worse. Some sufferers find retreating to a cool showing or swimming pool gives a spell of relaxation and relief from relentless sneezing. Take a daily antihistamine or good nasal spray to help control your symptoms. By following these tips, you can enjoy the summer despite your allergies.