Symptoms
At first you may think your symptoms are caused by a cold. Cold’s and allergies share a lot of the same symptoms and although the weather is getting warmer the spring isn’t quite the end of cold season. Before treating any symptoms find out what the cause is first. Treatment for allergies differs from treatment for the common cold. If you’re unsure and have not been diagnosed to have allergies, book an appointment with your Doctor to find out for sure.

Allergy symptoms typically include sneezing, sniffling, itchy eyes and throat and sinus congestion. With a cold, on the other hand, you may still have sneezing and sinus congestion but it will be combined with a fever or achiness throughout the body. Unlike a cold, allergies and the symptoms involved with allergies may cause asthma or other respiratory ailments. This is why it is important to be properly diagnosed by your Doctor.

The Cause
Most spring allergies are caused by pollen released into the air by trees, grass and flowers. More pollen is released at this time of year due to the plants’ new growth cycle. Mornings, between 5am and 10am, are typically when the most pollen is released. Other spring allergies include reactions to mold and mildew spores. Most of North America sees more rainfall in the spring so it’s important to clear out eaves and drains to allow water to flow away from the house preventing damp. If you do notice spots of mold and mildew in the house clean them either with bleach or a specific mold and mildew cleaner to remove the spores.

The body reacts to pollens, dust and spores because there is a battle between the allergen and the body’s immune system. The immune system mistakes the allergens as a form of bacteria and releases antibodies which typically results in itchy eyes and runny nose.

Prevention
One way to prevent symptoms is to keep doors and windows closed, especially during peak pollen release times. Using your air conditioner will also prevent the pollens from entering the house. If you do want to keep the windows open, clean windows to get rid of dust, dirt and cobwebs that can trap pollen. A portable HEPA air purifier will also help with air quality inside the home by clearing away dust, mold and mildew spores, pollen, pet dander and bacteria.

A natural way to relieve symptoms is to drink more water. Water hydrates the body and helps to thin out mucus. Try to avoid eating foods that cause more mucus secretions, like red meat, diary, eggs and fried foods. You don’t have to avoid them altogether but cut back and drink lots of water while eating them. Anti-inflammatory foods or foods high in omega-3 are also beneficial. This includes foods like oily fish, flaxseed and walnuts.

Re-scheduling outdoor activities to the afternoon or evening will also help diminish your symptoms. Also when you’ve been outdoors change your clothes when you go inside as pollens can get trapped in clothing and will be released as you move about the house.

Finally, an over the counter antihistamine will give you instant relief of the most annoying symptoms. During the day make sure to choose one that doesn’t cause drowsiness.