How to Protect yourself from Allergies this Spring

Allergies Vs Cold or Fever:

While seasonal allergies and colds share similar symptoms, they have very different causes. According to the Mayo Clinic, Seasonal allergies are immune system responses triggered by exposure to allergens, while colds are caused by viruses. 

Common Types of Spring Allergies:

Spring is here…and so are the seasonal allergies. As the flowers bloom to fruition, they bring along the allergens with them. Some of the most common types of spring allergens include tree, weed and grass pollen. The pollen is released and small pieces can be easily carried by the wind and insects. 

Another common springtime allergy includes molds and mildew spores. Mold thrives in wet places like fallen leaves, grass and rain. It also thrives in warmer places such as the indoors in bathrooms, kitchens and basements. Not to mention, mold can grow on plants that have grown during the winter. 

Bites from bugs like mosquitos, bees, wasps, and fleas become more common in the spring time due to the warm weather. 

Symptom Check:

Allergy symptoms are very similar to the symptoms of a common cold yet they vary based on location and severity. Spring allergens can trigger symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, coughing, congestion and itchy, watery eyes. 

How to Manage Seasonal Allergies: 

Avoid coming into contact with outside allergens: Controlling your exposure to allergens is one of the best ways to manage your allergies. Using an allergy forecaster can be very helpful as certain weather conditions can increase the severity of allergies. Avoid dry and windy days, as pollen is increased.

1. Check the pollen count outside by using an allergy forecast
2. Keep windows and doors closed
3. Stay indoor when pollen counts are high, dry and windy days, as there is likely in an increase of pollen in the air 
4. Wear protective clothing when outside

Keep up your hygiene: While it is impossible to completely avoid all allergens, there are many steps you can take when it comes to your personal hygiene that can protect you from allergies.  

1. Bathe, shower, change clothes after being outdoors
2. Avoid touching your face eyes and nose
3. Wash bedding in hot water weekly  
4. Use zippered allergen impermeable pillow and mattress covers

Keep your air clean: Help reduce the amount of pollen coming into your home by keeping the air clean with air conditioning and dehumidifiers. 

1. Keep indoor humidity below 50%
2. Use air conditioning instead of fresh air 
3. Use a dehumidifier to keep indoor air dry 

Relieve your allergy symptoms: When the allergies do kick in, consider trying natural herbal supplements to lessen the severity of the allergy attack. If your allergy symptoms significantly hinder your daily life, seek consultation from a doctor or allergist for additional help. 

1. Take natural herbs from Enerhealth Botanicals

• Echinosha Elderberry Syrup- A combination of nature's incredible bounty, that can give your immune system a super boost and calm down respiratory passage ways and work to eliminate excessive phlegm.
• Nettles Decongesting- Nettle’s herb helps the body deal with the effects of allergens; it works by modulating the body’s inflammatory pathways to support upper respiratory health. This herb also promotes detoxification and healthy blood. 
• Honey & Propolis Throat Spray- With resinous propolis and soothing honey, Honey & Propolis Throat Spray coats the throat for long-lasting relief and helps settle coughs. 
• Echinacea Blend-  Echinacea is one of the most popular and widely recognized herbs to support a healthy immune system. All species of echinacea contain phenolic compounds, which work in combination to produce immune-enhancing substances. Phenols have antioxidant properties, which have been shown to support overall wellness.