How to Reduce Your Hay Fever

Hay fever or seasonal rhinitis can cause congestion, sneezing, tearing eyes, itching and a runny nose. The first line of defense involves identifying and avoiding the allergens. During the springtime, the main culprits are pollens from trees and grass. In mid-August, the pollen comes from ragweed and other weeds, along with spores from wheat, barley and corn.

Instructions

• 1

  Avoid going outside before 10 a.m. when the pollen count is at its highest. To minimize your exposure to grass pollen, keep your grass short--no taller than one inch high. Use a mask over your mouth and nose whenever you garden. Stay indoors on dry and windy days.

• 2

  Close all doors and windows at night. Filter out pollen and mold by using an air conditioner and dehumidifier in your home. Install a high-efficiency particulate air filter, or HEPA filter, in your bedroom. This type of filter traps fine particles, such as pollen and dust mites, which can trigger allergy symptoms. If you are very sensitive to dust mites, remove all carpeting.

• 3

  Avoid eating foods that harbor molds, especially if your hay fever is aggravated by spores. The main culprits are beer, wine and other beverages made by fermentation processes; processed meats and fish; vinegar and all vinegar products. Yeasty breads, cheeses, dried fruits and mushrooms complete the list.

• 4

  Rinse your sinuses. Use a neti pot--a small container with a spout designed for nose rinsing--to flush out mucus and allergens. Prepare your own saltwater solution, using 1/4 teaspoon salt mixed with two cups of warm water, or purchase a nasal saline solution at your pharmacy or natural-foods store. This is a quick and effective way to relieve nasal congestion.

• 5

  Use over-the-counter medications if your symptoms are not too severe. Medications for hay fever include antihistamines and decongestants. Read the labels very carefully: Some medications are approved for children, while others are approved only for adults. Be aware of side effects; some types of antihistamines can make you drowsy, and oral decongestants can increase blood pressure and insomnia. If your symptoms persist, ask your doctor for prescription medication.