The change of season from cooler to warmer temperatures means blooming flowers, snow melting, dirt, dust, spores and more.
This can lead to a multitude of individuals suffering from allergies this time of year.
Seasonal allergies are also known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis. When mould spore and pollen counts go up, your immune system releases histamines.
Histamines are naturally occurring and perfectly normal – except when your body overreacts to non-harmful substances. Then you end up with itchy, watery eyes; runny nose and/or sinus drainage; sore or scratchy throat; and chest tightness, cough or difficulty breathing.
We have put together a few helpful tricks to ease the onset of seasonal allergies through fitness, and healthy home remedies. (Please always consult a health professional.)
Firstly, it is recommended to reduce your exposure to allergy triggers:
- Change your set of clothes after being outdoors
- Keep your indoor air clean by changing your air filters regularly
- Don’t hang your laundry outside
- Close your windows when pollen counts are high
- Shower after being outside
- Don’t overexert yourself outdoors during peak allergy season
- Concentrate the majority of your workouts to inside your fitness club
Even by doing all the correct things (unless you live in a bubble) it’s most likely that you will be affected by allergies, which is why we’ve put together some suggestions on how to treat the symptoms:
- Rinse your sinuses to clear any particles
- Drink herbal teas, such as nettle tea which is a natural remedy for allergic rhinitis. There’s evidence that nettles can help reduce inflammation and even calm allergy symptoms.
- Eucalyptus oil: Eucalyptus oil’s strong, piney aroma can supercharge steam inhalation, helping to open your sinuses and nasal passages further. The oil’s vapour provides a bracing, menthol-like sensation that can make breathing seem easier.
- Honey and Pollen: it is said that you should use your local honey, since the bees pollinate with the local pollen and consuming that honey may help with combating allergies.
- Vitamin C: Vitamin C is a natural antihistamine, antioxidant and antitoxin
- Physical exercise
Although exercise won’t eliminate allergies completely, it can help reduce symptoms. This is because physical activity leads to stronger blood flow, which helps flush allergens out of the body, and reduce inflammation caused by them. Simple exercises that focus on breathing are helpful for those with seasonal allergies. Exercises that concentrate on deeper breathing, which may be helpful in strengthening your lungs. For those with asthma, resistance training and exercise that involves stop-and-go are preferred.
Furthermore, stretching and warm-ups can lessen symptoms of allergies as well.
Curves is here to help you deal with seasonal allergies, we offer at home, and in-club possibilities that keep you stay out of a pollen zone, and boost your blood flow.
Join us this summer: Find your Curves club – Curves
Disclaimer: The content on this site is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
