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Remedies for Allergy Sufferers

Suffering from allergies can interfere with your life. It is never fun to have to carry a box of tissues around or to have a bright red nose, watery eyes and exhaustion from your allergies. There are both natural and prescription ways to help relieve your allergies.

  1. Cleaning

    • If you suffer from allergies due to dust or mold, be vigilant about cleaning. Dust using a damp cloth to get rid of more of the dust mites. Vacuum regularly with a vacuum that has a HEPA filter. Wash your sheets at least weekly in hot water. Wash your other bedding at least every two weeks. Be sure to use a mattress pad because it helps keep dust mites out of the mattress and helps prolong the life of the mattress.

    Natural Allergy Relief

    • Get relief from your allergies by using any of several different natural remedies. These may even provide better relief than prescription drugs without the side effects.

      Use a Neti Pot. Fill the Neti Pot with warm salt water and use it to clear your sinuses. It washes out your sinuses and gets rid of allergens.

      Take 1,000 mg of quercetin each day, starting at least six weeks before allergy season. Quercetin works as an antihistamine. It is also a natural antioxidant, helping to rid the body of free radicals and prevent cell damage. Stinging nettle (300 mg daily) and butterbur (4 doses of 8 mg each per day) are also natural alternatives to antihistamines.

      Eucalyptus is a known remedy. It reduces coughs, mucus and relieves nasal congestion.

      Alfalfa is said to relax the immune system, thereby reducing the body's reaction to allergens. Some people do react to alfalfa, so use caution until you are sure you do not react to alfalfa.

      Apple cider vinegar has many healing properties. It will soothe a sore throat, lessen the amount of mucus in the sinus cavities and if it is used with a chest compress, it will actually shorten the time of a cold.

      Nasal sprays are effective at relieving allergy symptoms. Use a saline nasal spray or one that contains xylitol if you want to use a natural nose spray.

    Medications

    • Find relief from your allergy symptoms by using either prescription medications, over-the-counter (OTC) medicines or a combination of the two. Zyrtec is an effective allergy medication and is available in generic form, making it more affordable. Claritin is also OTC but may not be as effective as Zyrtec. If you need a decongestant, you can always take Sudafed or any of its generic forms.

      Choose from OTC nasal sprays or one of the many prescription nasal sprays available. Most people can use nasal sprays only when they need them and get a better response than they do when they take oral medications all the time.

      Talk to your doctor before taking any medicine or supplement. Your doctor can help you choose the remedy that is best for you and your medical needs.

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