We welcome spring and its warmer weather. We don’t welcome
the allergies that come with it. Health Briefs TV covers how to get a jump on
spring allergies.
People who live in the south will vouch for how much pollen
is in the air by the amount of pollen on their cars. Spring is tree pollen time
and it is also grass and flower pollen time. Other factors of spring allergies
changes in the atmosphere are shifting pollen patterns and warmer temperatures
for longer periods of time. The higher the temperature, the more favorable
pollen is to aerosolization. Pollen causes sneezing, watery eyes and for some migraines.
Mold is another spring allergy. As with pollen, warm air helps
mold grow everywhere. Mold, a miniscule fungi, can live almost anywhere from soil,
plants, bathrooms and even older cars. Mold spores are in the air. They are more
prevalent in warm weather climates.
Hay fever is another spring allergy. The US Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention reports that more than 19 million adults and six
million children live with and manage this type of allergy. Symptoms include
sneezing, stuffiness, runny noses, itchiness in the nose and roof of the mouth,
throat and, having itchy eyes.
Health Briefs TV relays some tips for get ahead of spring
allergies:
- Use a smart phone app to see what the pollen count is in your area for the day and week.
- Use a nasal steroid spray. Start it one to two weeks before the onslaught of pollen season.
- Over-the-counter antihistamines are also very good at curbing allergy symptoms.
- Allergy shots may also work to ease symptoms.
- Ask your doctor if a sublingual tablet (melts under the tongue) is advisable for you.
Keep mind that taking a shower before bed is best because it
washes allergens off of the body and away from beds. It is also a good idea to
stay inside when the pollen count is the highest. Get ahead of spring allergies
this year.
