Pollen Allergy Cures

Pollen allergy is a condition in which a person suffers from symptoms that are directly caused from pollen derived from various weeds, trees, and grasses. There are several cures for pollen allergy symptoms, although there is no cure for its direct cause yet, according to a report on the Allergy Be Gone website. Treatment options vary from medications, alternative therapies and an attempt to prevent pollen exposure entirely.

Medications and Allergy Shots

• Antihistamines relieve histamine problems that cause pollen allergy symptoms such as excess mucous, nasal swelling, sneezing and an itchiness of the eyes, nose, and throat. Side effects may include a lack of alertness and drowsiness.

  Corticosteroids reduce mucous buildup and nasal inflammation that is caused by pollen allergy. It comes in the form of a nasal spray and can cause the throat to become sore or dry, and the nasal passages to burn, if not used as directed.

  Cromolyn sodium is a long-term prescription nasal spray that prevents the release of histamine. The spray does not cause drowsiness as other allergy medicines do.

  Nasal decongestants are over-the-counter sprays that help to unblock nasal passageways by reducing swelling and excess mucous production. Long-term usage can actually make problems worse, so use nasal decongestants only as a quick-relief method for curing pollen allergy symptoms.

  When medicines are not adequate on their own to relieve pollen allergy symptoms, a doctor may recommend that a patient receive allergy shots to build up immunity to the specific type of pollen they are allergic to. The shots are usually administered once a week for several months. Allergy shots are expensive, and may cause allergic reactions, swelling, hives and shock in some patients.

Alternative Treatments

• Aromatherapy is a relatively inexpensive form of alternative treatment for pollen allergies and can be done at home. Aromatherapy works by creating a vapor out of essential oils that is inhaled to soothe allergy symptoms. Examples of oils include lavender, rosemary, tea tree oil, eucalyptus and peppermint. These can be purchased as mixed formulas as well. Do not mix oils at home, or you risk an improper balance.

  Nasal irrigation is a process in which saline water is used in the nose in order to get rid of excess mucous and bacteria. It can be performed as needed on a daily basis.

  Steam inhalation is also used to get rid of excess mucous, and it helps to relieve congestion. Steam can soothe irritated sinuses and is often used in conjunction with aromatherapy.

  Saline sprays are used to soothe irritated membranes in the nasal passageways. They look similar to medicated nasal sprays.

Prevention

• One way to help cure pollen allergy symptoms is by trying to prevent them from flaring up altogether. Know when pollen levels are at their peak by looking at local weather resources. Pollen levels are highest in the late afternoon and early morning hours. Try to stay indoors as much as possible, and leave windows and doors closed. If outdoor activities are required, such as work, then wear a protective face mask to minimize inhaling pollen. Before going to bed, wash your hair in order to rid it of pollen that may have been picked up from being outdoors. Do not hang laundry on outdoor clotheslines. Change air filters in cars and home air conditioning units frequently. Also, avoid other allergens, such as dust, cigarette smoke, mold, chemical sprays and air pollution, because they may further irritate pollen allergies.