Solve your allergy symptoms
Whilst most of us look forward to the arrival of warmer weather, for many people the onset of spring can mean having to deal with the symptoms of allergies. Allergies such as hay fever, asthma, rhinitis and eczema can make life a misery for sufferers.
According to leading medical charity Medical UK, around one in four people in the UK are affected by an allergy at some point in their lives. Allergies are caused when the body's immune system reacts to a substance in the environment, producing symptoms such as a runny nose, coughing and wheezing, sinus problems and skin rashes.
Common allergens include pollen, dust, mould, pets, household chemicals and certain foods such as milk, nuts and eggs. Scientists believe that the number of people suffering from allergies is increasing by 5% each year, with children making up around half of those affected.
If you suffer from allergies, don't just grin and bear it. There are things you can do to ease the symptoms as well as address the root causes of allergies in the longer term. Read on to find out more.
Eat Well
Eating a diet rich in foods with anti-inflammatory properties is thought to help with allergy symptoms. The Omega 3 fatty acids found in oily fish such as salmon and mackerel are known to have an anti-inflammatory effect on the body, so try to include 3-4 portions in your diet each week.
Including foods such as broccoli, wholemeal bread and fortified breakfast cereals in your diet can also help control allergies as these foods are all rich in folic acid. This important nutrient is believed to help regulate the immune system's response to allergies as well as having a range of other health benefits.
Turmeric, ginger and garlic are also natural anti-inflammatories so if you like spicy food, eating curries could be an enjoyable way in which to ease allergy symptoms. Eating hot and spicy foods can also help clear out your sinuses and ease nasal congestion to provide immediate relief.
Be Prepared
If you know what you are allergic to, taking some steps to reduce exposure can make a real difference to your quality of life. Tree and plant pollen is at its highest first thing in the morning so leave the gardening or trips to the park until later in the day. Watch out for pollen and air quality forecasts on the news and avoid travelling to inland rural areas at times when the pollen count is likely to be high.
Taking medication such as antihistamine tablets can provide immediate relief from hay fever symptoms such as a runny nose and sore eyes, so carry some with you during the summer months. Asthmatics should follow any instructions given by their doctor, which will in many cases require you to carry an inhaler at all times.
Manage your Environment
Allergies such as asthma, eczema and rhinitis can be triggered by the presence of tiny dust mites in the home. Dust mites love a warm, damp environment making pillows, mattresses and cushions an ideal environment for them to thrive. Swapping traditional bedding for anti-allergy alternatives can make life easier for allergy sufferers, as can regularly washing bedding at high temperatures to kill dust mites.
Mould is another common allergen so keeping your home clean and dry is another way in which to manage allergies such as asthma. Keep doors and windows open as much as possible to allow air to circulate and if you find it difficult to stop mould developing in your home, a dehumidifier or air filter could help.
Although not all aspects of allergy are as yet fully understood, research is ongoing in an effort to identify causes and treatments. Anyone looking for help and support with managing allergies will find a wealth of information available online, including forums and support groups which offer the chance to make contact with fellow sufferers.
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