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The blooms that come with spring may be beautiful, but the tree pollen that floats through the air this season isn’t a welcome addition for those with allergies. According to the CDC, 25.7% of Americans suffer from pollen allergies, which can include symptoms like sniffles, congestion, itchy, runny eyes and constant sneezing.
There are plenty of over-the-counter medications to relieve those symptoms, but allergists say these natural remedies can be highly effective at making people feel better.
- Close the windows - Keep them shut both at home and in the car to limit pollen exposure.
- Air filters - Allergy doctors recommend using a HEPA air filter in all home AC units.
- Change and shower before bed - The clothes you wore outside during the day can track pollen inside, so be sure to take them off and shower so the pollen is off your hair and skin and doesn’t irritate you all night long.
- Clean your bedding - Wash your sheets weekly in hot water to remove the allergens, and don’t forget your duvet covers and other blankets, too.
- Wear an N95 mask outside - They can help block pollen particles, so when the pollen count is high or you’re exposed to a lot of it, like when mowing the yard, a mask can help protect you.
- Use a saline rinse - These can be sprayed inside the nostrils to wash out the pollen and soothe irritation.
- Drink plenty of water - Staying hydrated can keep those irritated mucous membranes moist.
- Try steam and humidifiers - Especially in the bedroom, they can help relieve congestion.
But allergy experts say there are some natural remedies for seasonal allergies that don’t really work:
- Vitamins and supplements - There’s not enough evidence to show these actually help.
- Honey - Studies haven’t proven that it helps relieve seasonal allergy symptoms.
- Essential oils - These may actually make symptoms worse for some people.
Source: Today
Photo: Getty Images