You Can Love Spring, Even With Allergies!
By Donna Stark
I have plenty of love/hate relationships in my life, but the one that stands out the most, especially during this time of year, is the relationship I have with the spring season. Now don't get me wrong. I certainly love spring more than I hate it, but those first few weeks can really do a number on me -- so much that I tend to stay inside when all I want to do is be outdoors! Why, you ask? Well, like so many others, my body has a physical reaction to all of the allergens floating through the air, and that warm air that I have been longing for all winter usually ends up being my No. 1 nemesis.
Don't Diminish Your Allergies
If you suffer from seasonal allergies, you know the symptoms ... runny nose, congestion, sneezing, and itchy eyes ... it's all just enough to disrupt your day. But it doesn't stop there. Allergies can significantly impact your quality of life as well by affecting how well you sleep, how productive your days are, and how often you can enjoy doing the things you love. If you suffer from seasonal allergies, spring may not seem so sunny at all, but there are some things you can do that will help you enjoy this season a lot more. Take a look.
- Stay a step ahead - Prepare your body for the allergen attack and begin your medication before those annoying symptoms start. Medications may include over-the-counter nasal sprays and antihistamines, or prescribed medication from your primary care doctor.
- Be selective when you head outdoors - Before you head outdoors, check your area's pollen counts to see what time they are at their lowest, and if it is going to be a particularly windy day, think twice about stepping foot outside. If and when you do head outdoors, protect your eyes by wearing sunglasses and if doing yard work, wear a filter mask.
- Wash it off - When you come back inside, it is recommended that you take a shower, wash your hair, and change your clothing so that the pollen is not brought into your home, especially if you are going straight to bed. You certainly don't want to sleep with all of those allergens, do you?
- Pollen-proof your home - There is nothing better to brush off that cabin fever than to open your house up once that warm air comes back, but unwanted pollen can sneak into those open windows and infect your home. So as hard as it is, resist the urge to do so and use your air conditioner instead.
It's Time to Love Spring Again
Taking the necessary precautions to keep your allergies at bay will not only help you survive spring season but will give you the opportunity to enjoy being outdoors as well! So go ahead and treat yourself to some sunshine and warm breezes. You deserve it!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Temecula, Calif.