Isn’t spring just the best time of year? Everyone is out starting their gardens, and nature awakens almost overnight. You can smell the vibrancy of new life in the air — that is, if you can stop sneezing. Allergies are a part of life. Luckily, you can take steps to alleviate the effects of pollen, grasses and other abundant particulates this time of year. If you have severe allergies, it may be time to talk to a doctor at one of our walk-in-clinics.
Allergies are Helpful…Really
The symptoms that come along with allergies are your body’s way of telling you that something is amiss. A runny nose is a way of flushing out the mucous membranes, and coughing indicates that your throat and lungs are unhappy. Red, irritated eyes show that your body is fending off a little piece of debris that could damage the cornea, and tearing is intended to remove pollen and other irritants. Although the severity of the reactions is uncomfortable, it is in your best interest because your body is going into a hyperactive mode to protect you.
The Downside of Allergies
Allergies can become problematic when your body goes too far in protecting itself. You may experience chronic breathing problems, eye infections, painful skin rashes and a myriad of other problems. People with chronic allergies or who experience debilitating symptoms should work with their physician to identify the reason for the allergic reaction and find ways to manage the symptoms.
Natural Remedies for Occasional Allergies
If you experience occasional or seasonal allergies, try these tips to reduce the frequency, longevity, and severity of the symptoms.
- Drink plenty of water to help your body flush out the toxins
- Avoid rubbing your eyes, especially after blowing your nose
- Speak with your doctor or pharmacist about herbal supplements, and be sure to mention any medications that you take
- Mix a little local, raw honey or lemon into your water
- Eat foods that are high in antioxidants, quercetin, and probiotics
- Start your day with one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar in water
- Flush out your sinuses with a Neti Pots
- Use a few drops of essential oils, such as eucalyptus or frankincense, in a diffuser or add it to your laundry cycle
Do You Suffer from Seasonal or Chronic Allergies? Contact Summit Healthcare.
To learn more about allergy treatments, nutritional counseling, diagnostic imaging and our other services, contact Summit Healthcare to schedule an appointment. You can also contact our Snowflake Medical Center at (928) 536-7519. You can reach our Family Medicine locations at (928) 536-5858 in Snowflake, (928) 537-5437 in Lakeside and (928) 532-3926 in Show Low. We also have two clinics that can be reached at (928) 367-6688 in Pinetop.
