Hay fever
If you suffer from hayfever, the changing of the seasons can bring a whole new set of challenges that play havoc with your sinuses. Hayfever is your body's reaction to the presence of air-born particles such as pollen, dust and other allergens which cause irritation of your nasal linings and other membranes such as your eyes.
Hay Fever Symptoms
As the pollen season varies geographically and people are allergic to different pollens, the symptoms also usually vary from one person to another. However, they will often include the following:
- Constant sneezing
- Coughing
- Runny nose (clear, thin discharge)
- Congested (stuffy) nose
- Postnasal drip
- Red, watery and itchy eyes
- Dry itchy throat, palate and tongue
- Itchy or plugged ear(s)
- Fatigue/trouble sleeping
Self-Care at Home
There are several things you can do to mitigate the symptoms of hayfever:
- Avoid contact with known allergens like long grasses or dust
- Gargle with warm salt water to soothe a mildly sore, itchy throat
- Take non-prescription antihistamines to relieve symptoms of sneezing, runny nose and itchy throat or eyes (caution - these medications may make you drowsy)
- For a stuffy nose, a combination of an antihistamine and a decongestant will help
- Avoid mucous-forming foods such as dairy products, refined wheat products and processed foods in general.
- Take a multivitamin supplement especially Vitamin C