How to Control Spring Allergies

Spring brings in good things like warm temperatures, blooming flowers and green grass. But for some people, spring means constantly sneezing, itchy/watery eyes, and stuffy nose. These are common signs of seasonal allergies. Seasonal allergies also known as “hay fever”, occurs when they body recognizes an attacker, called pollen. Pollen is released from plants as tiny particles, that can be seen in the air. When the body recognize the pollen, it sends a message to the body to cause symptoms.

Seasonal allergies are treated with drugs called antihistamines. Antihistamines, blocks a compound in the body called histamine. Blocking histamine relieve the symptoms caused by seasonal allergies. A common antihistamine is Benadryl. Benadryl is not commonly used anymore to treat seasonal allergies because it can cause drowsiness. Some common antihistamines are Zyrtec, Allegra, and Claritin. These medications can be brought over-the-counter.

There are ways to decrease allergy symptoms by knowing the triggers. Stay away from mowing the lawn, gardening and other outside hobbies. Wear a mask when doing outside hobbies. Keep windows and doors closed so pollen won’t enter the home. Remove clothing and shower to clean off the pollen on the skin and hair.