Spring is in the air – but so is pollen. Many of my food allergies are related to my pollen allergies, and so in years past I’ve simply avoided the outdoors once the trees start blooming.
This year, however, I’m training and fundraising for the Paramedic Ride (www.paramedicride.ca), and so I have been biking outdoors A LOT. My allergist and I have been tweaking my medications to make this more possible, but I also have a few other non-medical options that I use to cope.
- Rinse: Similar to a Netipot©, saline sinus rinses let you squeeze saline up your nose, through your sinuses, and back out. So gross, yet so satisfying when you’re sick, and very helpful during pollen season.
- Cool: Cold, damp cloths are so soothing on the eyes. I listen to podcasts or sleep while I’m doing it and just let it soak in. My niece’s strategy is to hold a cloth on one eye, and read with the other, then switches.
- Shower: When the pollen gets sticky, more frequent showers can be helpful! I also find showers to be soothing on the lungs.
As with any other treatment, find things that work for you, and check with your medical professionals before you try something new.
What techniques do you use to cope with pollen, and get yourself outdoors?
– Janice H.
Tags: allergic reaction, Janice H., Pollen, Tips