I am a seasonal allergy sufferer. When the seasons change, my allergies go haywire. I spent the whole weekend scaring my kids with bloodshot eyes, while the pharmacist thought I had pink eye. Seasonal allergies hit me hard time.
Every year I keep thinking that this year is the worst allergy season of my life. Dramatic, no? Not so fast. I, and the other allergy sufferers, are not so over dramatic. The pollen in the air is more than ever before, increasing with each season. The worst part? The 2011 September issue of Health Magazine states that this fall’s allergy season will last an average of 27 days longer. That is almost a month! And here is why:
1. Allergy seasons are longer. Some are blaming global warming for the increase of warmer weather, but allergy season is starting early and ending later and later every year. The warmer weather is tempting flowers and plants to pollinate earlier and longer every season, which spreads allergens in the air and to our noses. Since the warmer weather is delaying the frost of winter, those allergens are floating around until the holidays. (or at least that is how it feels.)
2. Pollen production is kicking into high gear. Back to the whole global warming thing- whether you believe in it or not, it cannot be denied that the mercury is rising and the temps are affecting our environment. The extra carbon dioxide actually helps plants produce more pollen. And that stinky carbon dioxide is making the pollen more potent.
3. Allergy sufferers are increasing in numbers. Misery loves company, and sadly I am not alone in my suffering. Americans who suffer from allergies are skyrocketing. Some attribute it to genes, but other things might be affecting our national allergy increase. Ever think the antibacterial soap you use after you touch anything could be harming you? Studies show that we are now too clean. Since we are not exposed to dirt and dust and grime as much, our bodies are not able to create an immunity against them. But on the other hand, pollution can really trigger allergies in big cities.
And what you eat might also affect your susceptibility to allergies. As a whole, our nation eats a whole lot of preserved foods that lack the grains and fibers from plants. The lack of balance in our diet affects the bacteria in our stomach, which is very different from our ancestors So next time you dish up your food, pile on some fresh veggies and fiber to restore that balance.
So what can we do? First things first, use your United health care insurance card to visit your doctor to get some allergy medicine. But do know, allergy medicine is not one size fits all. If one does not work for you, try another. If you need more specialized care, visit an allergist.
Still have the sniffles? Clean out your air with a HEPA filter to get the allergens and mold particles out of the air.