Seasonal Allergies and Hayfever Allergy Causes
With every breath we take, we breathe in millions of microscopic particles such as dust, pollen, plant spores, viruses, bacteria and even pollutants in the form of chemicals in the air.
Many of these particles are filtered and removed by the nose and respiratory system, while others enter the body. If the immune system is strong and healthy, it can ward off infection against pollutants, viruses and other harmful airborne substances that may enter the body.
Normally the immune system will ignore harmless airborne particles entering the body such as pollen, house dust, animal dander, etc. In some people, however, the immune system misinterprets these harmless particles and identifies them as being dangerous to the system.
This triggers a release of a substance called histamine, as well as other inflammatory compounds in the body, which cause the condition called allergic rhinitis or hayfever seasonal allergy.
People who develop seasonal allergies in warm weather, windy conditions or at spring time are generally allergic to grass, tree and flower pollens. Those who have this reaction all year round are probably also allergic to house dust, mold or animal dander.
Because the mucous membranes of the nose and respiratory tract are affected, people with seasonal allergies are often more vulnerable to colds, sinusitis, influenza and other respiratory infections, setting up a vicious cycle of a compromised immune system, increased allergies, progressive fatigue and weakening of the system.
Seasonal Allergies/Hayfever Allergy Symptom List:
What about conventional antihistamines to treat hayfever allergy and seasonal allergies?
Doctors usually treat seasonal allergies supportively and with antihistamine drugs which can block the release of histamine and therefore reduce or prevent the allergic reaction. Antihistamines may be short acting or long acting and come in tablets, nasal sprays, inhalers, eye drops or syrups.
Antihistamines can be very effective and many people with severe allergies to airborne substances find it very difficult to lead a normal life without them. By preventing or reducing the allergic reaction, antihistamines can also help to prevent the illness cycle that arises due to frequent allergic attacks.
However, as always, the advantages of any medication should always be weighed against its disadvantages. Antihistamines can also cause unwanted side effects and even make allergies worse in some cases.
Disadvantages of Conventional Antihistamines
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Antihistamines may lose their effectiveness over time.
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They can cause sedation and reduce concentration and increase the risk of motor vehicle and work related accidents.
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They may thicken mucus secretions and increase the risk of bacterial infection and sinusitis.
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They may make it more difficult for men with prostate problems to pass urine.
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Other side effects include insomnia, nightmares, dry mouth, rapid heart beat, anxiety and agitation.
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They should not be used with alcohol which can increase side effects.
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Some antihistamines are not recommended along with certain antibiotics or prescription antidepressants.
Natural Allergy Relief Tips
There are many ways to support health naturally and help to reduce the frequency and severity of allergy responses.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle to promote a healthy immune system. Participate in regular exercise, eat a healthy, preferably organic diet and get sufficient sleep.
- Eat lots of fresh, raw fruit and vegetables which contain rich sources of flavonoids and other nutrients. Eat fatty fish and other foods high in omega-3 fatty acids for anti-inflammatory effects.
- Avoid: Honey and bee pollen capsules; Any food in the same plant family as sunflowers (Compositae family); Fermented foods or those with molds if fungi spores trigger symptoms.
- Avoid cigarettes, alcohol, caffeine and other recreational drugs, which weaken immune and respiratory tract functioning.
- Add Vitamin C and A to your daily supplements.
- Practice stress management and relaxation techniques. Stress can exacerbate allergies by weakening the immune system.
- Keep an eye on the pollen count in your area and stay indoors when it is high.
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