Although it has been the coldest and longest winter in North America, and for many areas it still doesn’t feel like spring is here, one sign that it has arrived is the increasing number of symptoms associated with allergies – sneezing, runny nose and itchy eyes. The following information, which we posted last year, offers great tips to stay on top of your symptoms this season, and for allergy relief.
Millions of Americans suffer from seasonal allergies, and for many of these individuals, itchy and watery eyes, sneezing, sinus pressure and pain are not only associated with spring and summer trees, grass and pollen, but are also triggered year-round by things like dust, mold and animal dander.
Environmental allergies are not a disease, but a symptom of immune dysfunction.
In order to treat allergies effectively, you need to focus on the root cause, as well as the symptoms. The immune system is built to respond to infection (viruses or bacteria) by producing antibodies. In the case of allergies, the immune system overreacts, treating these harmless substances as invaders. The antibody IgE (immunoglobulin E, which is produced against the allergen) triggers the release of pro-inflammatory chemicals like histamine, responsible for the symptoms of itchy, runny eyes and nose, and sneezing. This inflammation can spread and lead to other related disorders, as well. For example, people who suffer from allergies are said to be three times more likely to develop asthma, an inflammatory disease of the airways. Continue reading “Tips for Allergy Relief”
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