Allergy Treatment: Know Your Options
"As the allergy season goes on, your nasal passages become more and more inflamed from daily exposure to pollen," says Dr Dykewicz . About 20% of Americans suffered from hay fever , which occurs when your immune system overreacts to pollen. As the body attempts to neutralize the pollen, it releases histamines and other substances that trigger watery eyes, a runny nose, and congestion (which is caused by inflammation ). Research published in the February 2014 issue of the journal Otolaryngologic Clinics of North America shows that people with seasonal allergies have a 10-fold greater risk of developing asthma , and they may be more prone to sinus infections . Avoidance of Pollens The simplest strategy to fight allergy is—steering clear of pollen as much as possible . Here are some tactics you can adopt: [23] After spending time outdoors, pollen can be collected on your hair and clothing. When returning home, consider: Take off or change your s...