The Best Hayfever Relief

Hay fever, the most common type of seasonal allergy, has symptoms that closely resemble the common cold. The allergic reaction caused by exposure to pollen or mold produces a thin, frequent watery discharge from the nose and causes eyes and skin to feel itchy. The best approach to finding relief from hay fever focuses on avoiding the allergen as much as possible, taking steps to prevent or lessen the symptoms and strengthening the immune system.

Reducing Exposure to Allergens

• Minimize exposure to allergens by taking the following measures:
  --Keep the windows in the home closed and the windows in the car rolled up.
  --Have the car washed frequently inside and out.
  --Change the setting on the air conditioner in the home, so it recirculates air within the home instead of pulling in air from the outdoors.
  --Wash bedding, pajamas and clothing regularly in hot water to make sure that pollen is not being worn on the body or disrupting a peaceful night's sleep. Washing the hair and skin before bedtime is also important as pollen collects in the hair and on the skin.
  --When working in the yard, wear a mask and goggles to keep the pollen out of the eyes and lungs. Limit time spent outdoors to morning hours, as grass pollinates in midday.
  --Keep pets inside or outside, but not both as dogs and cats pick up pollen on their fur.
  --Avoid tobacco smoke as it irritates the lungs and eyes.
  --Refrain from drinking alcohol as it increases mucus production.

Medication

• When seeking relief for hay fever, an over-the-counter medication such as Zyrtec or Claritin may be all that is needed to clear symptoms. If these do not help, it is best to visit a doctor for an allergy test. After the specific allergy has been identified, the doctor may provide a series of allergy shots.

Natural Ways to Find Relief

• Include yogurt in the diet. A study at the University of California-Davis found that eating yogurt every day reduces the amount and severity of hay-fever attacks. Eating bananas may also help hay fever. Researchers at Giessen University in Germany found that the amount of magnesium found in eating three bananas is enough to stop a hay-fever attack.

  Red, itchy eyes can be relieved by placing slices of cool cucumbers over the eyes. Cooled black teabags placed on the eyes will help reduce swelling and irritation. Adding eucalyptus oil to the bath water or inhaling it in a steam treatment will help relieve congestion caused by hay fever.

  Several herbs are known to be helpful in treating symptoms of hay fever. Nettle leaf, mullein leaf, stinging nettle and wild cherry bark are helpful in warding off allergic reactions. Try an alcohol-free liquid extract of eyebright or yarrow to find relief from symptoms. Place a few drops of the herbal extract under the tongue and hold it there for a few minutes before swallowing.