Seasonal hay fever is a common affliction in both women and men. Hay fever starts when the body overreacts to the presence of pollens and the immune cells pump out too much histamine. Histamine causes watery eyes, sneezing, itching and hives of hay fever. The official start of the allergy season varies - March on the West Coast - May on the East Coast. Here are a few tips that may help you avoid exposure this season.

7 Tips for Allergy Relief

• Shower before bedtime to remove pollens that can cling to hair and trigger an allergy attack at night.

• Wash bedding frequently; consider using plastic/vinyl covers on pillows and mattresses.

• Keep windows shut (use an air conditioner), and install a high-quality air filter to trap pollens, mold and dust.

• Try a neti pot to clear pollen out of the nasal passages.

• Remove shoes before coming indoors (they can track in pollens).

• Don't mow the lawn; but if you must, wear a surgical mask to keep pollen away from your airways.

• Minimize time outdoors, especially on dry, windy days.

Vitamins and Herbs Can Help

Vitamin C, taken in combination with the bioflavonoid quercetin, can rein in out-of-control histamine during allergy season. Vitamin C acts as a natural antihistamine, blocking the release of histamine from cells. Quercetin also serves as a natural antihistamine and has the added benefit of quelling inflammation.

Bromelain, an enzyme from pineapple, might improve the action of quercetin. for allergy sufferers. This enzyme helps reduce the swelling of allergy-aggravated tissues.

Bee pollen (literally the pollen gathered from bees from plants, mixed by the bees with plant nectar and bee saliva), surprisingly, combats hay fever. It works in a similar way to allergy shots; the body becomes desensitized to pollen and has lessened allergic reaction by exposure to minute amounts in the form of bee pollen.

As with any vitamin or supplement, please consult your doctor before taking. Author Beverly Terhune speaks from 35 years of living with Rheumatoid Arthritis and shares her experience, strength & hope on how to lead a healthy, substance-free life.

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