Spring is just around the corner. Springtime is much awaited after the long, cold spell that dragged many individuals down for a couple of months. This season is said to be a "renewal", the start of new things to come. It is also referred to as a rebirth or regrowth. But weather wise, spring is also the time of year dreaded by allergy patients since it brings out their worst allergy symptoms. There are about 40 million Americans who have outdoor allergies. The Allergy Report from the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology states that allergies are the sixth cause of chronic illness in the United States. Healthcare professionals are always expected to be busy this time of the year with the influx of allergy-related illnesses.

Nasal Allergy

Nasal allergy or allergic rhinitis is a common allergy triggered by dust, pollen, or dander. When a person inhales these foreign substances (allergens) through the nose, the body overreacts and produces an excess amount of antibodies called immunoglobulin of IgE. The IgE then tackles the allergens, thereby triggering the release of histamine which dilates the blood vessels. With all these reactions happening quickly inside the body, it will not take long before an inflammatory response comes into effect.

When nasal allergy is present, symptoms like sneezing, nasal stuffiness, itchy eyes, colds, watery eyes and nose are common. Ear infections, conjunctivitis and asthma are also related to nasal allergies, and a full blown nasal allergy can progress into sinus infections. When bacteria are trapped in the sinus cavity, more symptoms such as headache, sore throat, coughing, facial pain and pressure can occur to patients.

Preventing Nasal Allergy

Generally, people who are allergy-prone are recommended to carry anti-histamine nasal sprays and are suggested to take allergy shots to lessen the symptoms. When coming from outdoors, it is advisable to change clothing and remove shoes right away to avoid spreading pollen inside the home. Replace bed sheets and blankets. Vacuum your carpets thoroughly. High-pollen count can happen in spring, so keeping windows closed most of the time is a good prevention method for nasal allergy.

Combat Nasal Allergy with Nasal Irrigation

It is best to consult your doctor to find out if you are suffering from the common cold or nasal allergy. Colds and flu last only for a certain period, while allergic rhinitis can last for the whole duration of spring, or sometimes, all year round. If you are suffering from allergic or perennial rhinitis, ask your doctor about medicated nasal irrigation. Nasal irrigation, also known as nasal washing or sinus rinse, is an old practice using water and salt. It is used since the ancient times for hygiene and cleansing of the nasal passages.

Medicated nasal irrigation is a modern form of nasal washing to clean out airborne allergens and mucus from the nasal passages and sinus cavity. This method makes use of a preservative-free, all natural sea salt solution, together with an efficient nasal irrigator that is custom-molded to make irrigation easier and the salt solution flow more directional.

Keep allergens away from their tracks. Visit your doctor to learn more information about allergies and how to overcome them. This spring, make a renewed commitment to make your sinus health a priority.