Brooklyn Health Check: 7 Ways To Keep Those Annoying Allergies Under Control

For some of us, Spring time is about going for walks in the park, laying out on the grass, and enjoying the trees in full bloom. For some just the thought of Spring have them rolling their eyes because they know they have to carry the proper medications before they leave their house.

According to Aafa.org, about 30 percent of adults and 40 percent of children suffer from allergies. The symptoms can range from coughing, sneezing, runny nose, and watery eyes. In some cases, people with allergies can even end up in the hospital — or even worse death.

For those allergy sufferers in Brooklyn and beyond, here are 7 ways you can keep your allergy flare-ups under control according to a report published by Health.com:

Neti Pot

The Neti Pot has been around since 1972 and is probably the most popular tool used for nasal flushes. You’re to add salt to a warm distilled water into the teapot look-a-like tool and place it into one nostril and tilt your head until the water comes out the other nostril. By doing that, you are releasing all the pollen and mucus that maybe lodged in your nasal passage.

Saline Spray

If the Neti Pot isn’t your style, then using a saline spray might be a bit easier for you. It produces the same effect as the pot except for tilting your head sideways you will be tilting it backwards as you squeeze a bit of solution into each of your nostril.

HEPA filters

HEPA is the acronym for high-efficiency particular air which is placed in your home to filter out all the dander and other allergens. You can also use dehumidifiers and air conditioners which can also lessen your allergy flare-ups.

Herbs and Supplements

For those who to take a more holistic, try using Spirulina, Eyebright, and Goldenseal, which are proven to reduce one’s allergy symptoms. To get more technical, using the plant butterbur has been proven also to reduce airway inflammation by Swiss scientists.

Showering

A simple no brainer yet taking a shower after you have come from outside whether it is a walk in the park or just gardening in your backyard can help remove any allergens that may have caught onto you.

Steam

Pour steaming hot water into a bowl and place a towel over your head, lean over the bowl and breathe the steam deeply through your nose. Do this for about 10 minutes. This will allow any mucus or anything clogging your sinuses to loosen up.

Eucalyptus Oil

Eucalyptus oil is known to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help relieve nasal congestion. You can add a few drops in a hot bowl of water or on the floor of the shower just before you step in. Take a minute to inhale the scent combined with the heat and you should eventually feel a bit better than before.