Achoo! Spring is right around the corner, which means allergy symptoms, such as runny nose, itchy and watery eyes, sinus pressure, post nasal drip, nasal congestion, and sneezing are about to hit hard.
Over-the-counter allergy medicine such as Allegra, Claritin, and Zyrtec may help relieve those annoying symptoms, but not for long. We've compiled a list of all the natural ways to help prevent those seasonal allergies.
NasalFlo Neti Pot
Sure, sticking something up your nose to rinse out sinuses may sound gross, but the NasalFlo Neti Pot is highly recommended by Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) doctors. Simply fill the Neti Pot with distilled water and rinse one nostril at a time. By using the Netipot twice a day, those suffering from allergies will feel a relief of symptoms, including sinus pressure, nasal stuffiness, cold and flu symptoms, nasal congestion, animal dander, pollen, and post nasal drip.
Close The Windows
It's a beautiful day, which means pollen levels will be high. Keep the windows closed at all times to prevent pollen from getting inside the house.
"You want to keep pollen, in particular, out of the bedroom since we spend one-third of our lives in bed," said Dr. Andrew W. Murphy, allergy chief at Chester County Hospital in Pennsylvania.
HEPA Filter
To help prevent allergies, install HEPA filters in window air-conditioning units. HEPA filters are made to break down harmful pollutants such as allergens, mold, bacteria, dust, and smoke. HEPA filters can cost anywhere from $40 to $269, depending on the brand. The best room to focus on is the bedroom since that's where most people spend their time.
Housekeeping
Try to dedicate at least 10 minutes a day to clean around the house. This will help remove or reduce dust build up. If allergies are too bad around dust, be sure to ask a family member for help with chores around the house. In addition, it's also good to wash bedding at least once a week in hot soapy water.
Shower At Night
Showering before bed helps remove allergens that get caught on hair and skin. Giving kids a bath before bedtime can also help relieve their allergy symptoms.
Start Allergy Treatment Early
Allergies are at their worst in April and May, so try to take an over-the-counter allergy pill starting at the beginning of March. This will help alleviate allergy symptoms caused by spring.
