As the weather warms up and plants start to bloom, many of us experience the annoyance of seasonal allergies. I’ve worked with hundreds of patients who struggle with allergies, and I’ve seen firsthand the benefits of taking a holistic approach to managing symptoms. Here are some of my favorite tips to help you get through allergy season:
- Avoid triggers when possible
The first step in managing allergies is to identify and avoid triggers. This can be challenging, especially if you’re allergic to pollen, however, there are steps you can take to reduce your exposure.
As tempting as the spring breeze may be, keeping your windows and doors open is a bad idea for those with seasonal allergies. Use an air purifier indoors to remove allergens from the air, and make sure to change your air filters regularly. When you’re outside, you may find wearing a hat and sunglasses helps to protect your face and eyes from pollen.
2. Try not to bring the outside in
Allergens can stick to your clothes, hair, and skin, so it’s important to practice good hygiene during allergy season. Take a shower and wash your hair after spending time outdoors. Wash your clothes and bedding frequently, and take care to use non-toxic laundry detergent to avoid irritating fragrances and harsh chemicals.
3. Support your body with high-quality supplements
High-quality supplements can be a helpful addition to your allergy management plan. Certain supplements have been shown to reduce inflammation, boost immune function, and support healthy mucous membranes, which can help alleviate allergy symptoms. We can recommend individualized supplement protocols in our office, or if you give us a call at 818-551-9700.
Before taking any supplements, it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional to ensure they are safe for you and won’t interact with any medications you may be taking.
4. Get adjusted!
Chiropractic care can help improve your overall health and reduce allergy symptoms by regulating your immune system so it doesn’t overreact to allergens. Misalignments in your spine can affect your nervous system, which controls your immune system. By restoring proper alignment, chiropractic adjustments can help your body function at its best and improve your immune response.
5. Focus on nutrition
Eating a healthy, balanced diet can help boost your immune system and reduce allergy symptoms. Focus on eating whole, nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats. Avoid processed foods, which can contain additives and preservatives that can exacerbate allergies.
6. Stay hydrated
Drinking plenty of water can help thin mucus and reduce congestion. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day, and try to limit sugary drinks and alcohol, which can dehydrate you and make allergy symptoms worse.
7. Get enough sleep
Getting enough sleep is essential for overall health. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night, and try to establish a consistent sleep routine. High-quality sleep with an air purifier will help keep your immune system healthy which can reduce your allergy symptoms.
I hope these tips help you and your family get through allergy season!
If you’re struggling with allergies and need additional support, please reach out to us. In addition to chiropractic adjustments, we can help you develop a personalized plan to manage your symptoms.
