March winds and April showers bring about May’s flowers, and along with them: airborne allergens that cause sneezing, coughing, sinus headaches, runny noses, and itchy, watery eyes. Eek!
It’s that time of year again, and if you suffer from this terrible affliction, you’re definitely not alone.
Allergens and Their Effects
Researchers believe around 50 million Americans suffer from nasal allergies every year.
This number is only increasing, affecting three in ten adults and four out of ten children. Allergic disease is the fifth leading chronic disease in the US among all age groups.
The culprits are dust and dust mites, pollen, pet dander, mold and mildew, formaldehyde (it’s in everything), volatile organic compounds, and smoke from tobacco and candles.
Allergy Medicine Side Effects
Short of throwing up your hands in defeat and planning your move to the deserts of Arizona where pesky allergens aren’t as common, there seems to be little allergy-sufferers can do but soldier on through the discomfort.
Most treatments for allergies have side effects that are just as irritating as having allergies!
- Antihistamines can make it tough to stay awake or focus.
- Pseudoephedrine, on the other hand, can cause jitters and nervousness, and make it difficult to fall asleep.
- Other nasal decongestants cause brain fog and cotton mouth. They are definitely not suitable for individuals with high blood pressure, heart conditions, thyroid problems, or diabetes.
- Don’t be fooled! Nasal sprays taste horrible, and are not long-term health solutions, as they can be habit-forming.
How to Reduce Allergens
An effective allergy solution is to simply eliminate the allergens from your living and work environment.
Air filtration has been studied by researchers for over 40 years, and has been proven to provide swifter relief for those with allergic respiratory illness.
In several studies, researchers found that when air cleaners are installed in the home, they significantly improve the sleep quality, and reduce negative symptoms for those who suffer from allergies.
With the right preventative measures, individuals and families that suffer from allergies can be more comfortable during this lovely time of year.
