With the Olympics here and gone and it's March already it means spring is around the corner. Unfortunately, spring has sprung in Vancouver before the Olympics arrived so I have been suffering...literally I might add seasonal allergic rhinitis. The cherry blossom tree is really killing me this year. As I have mentioned in my other post about pollen allergen and what a person can do to prevent it doesn't mean it's convenient.
Allergic rhinitis or hayfever is inflammation of the nasal passages and it can cause congestion or runny, sneezing and itchy nose. One may also experience post-nasal dripping which is mucus draining from the sinus down the back of the throat. This may also cause sore throats.
Antihistamines work if the allergy causes sneezing, itchy eyes and itchy throats. It doesn't do a lot when the allergy is inside your nose. In the past I have used Flonase or Nasonex, a corticosteroid nasal spray. While it is effective, it's also something I rather not use. I prefer something more natural and I haven't found anything yet to try.
From WebMD on how to use homemade saline nasal spray.
To make the saline solution, mix two to three heaping teaspoons of non–iodized salt to one pint of water. It is best to use kosher salt that has no additives. Add one teaspoon of baking soda to this solution. Store your saline solution at room temperature and mix before use. If the solution stings when you use it, use less salt.
To use this natural remedy, fill the bulb syringe or Neti pot with the saline solution. Stand over the bathroom sink and lean your head forward. While leaning over the sink, tilt your head to one side and pour the solution directly into one nostril. Aim the stream of saline solution toward the back of your head -- not at the top of your head.
The solution will go into your nasal cavity and run out the other nostril and down the back of your throat. Gently blow your nose and spit out the drainage to clear the nasal passages and throat. While irrigating the nose, it is best to stand over the sink and irrigate each side of your nose.
Some people have mentioned herbal teas or acupunture.
I'm open to learning more about alternative ways to relieve my allergies this season. If you know of any natural over-the-counter products or other homemade solutions it would be great and please share them by leaving me a comment.
1 comments:
From what I was told, the solution doesn't go in your throat just up your sinuses and down the other nostril.
To me, that sounds more bearable.
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