Apple Cider Vinegar for Allergies: does it help?

Spring is a beautiful time of year! But it’s also the time when a lot of people feel the strain and frustration of seasonal allergies.

Seasonal allergies kick in when your immune system reacts to a common allergen in the air. It’s also called hay fever or allergic rhinitis. The biggest allergy triggers are dust mites, pet dander and pollen. Spring is when trees are blooming and flowers are budding. This usually creates high pollen counts in the air.

I have allergies. What’s happening?

When you have an allergic reaction, it means your body is working to protect you! Your body releases histamines to fight off the allergens when triggered. This creates the physical symptoms we know all too well. And some of these symptoms can look like the everyday common cold.

Seasonal allergy symptoms include:

•       Sneezing
•       Stuffy nose
•       Watery eyes
•       Itchy eyes, nose or skin
•       Cough
•       Sore throat
•       Clogged ears
•       Headache
•       Fatigue or irritability

While it’s possible to grow out of some allergies as children, it’s also possible to grow into allergies as you age. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America says allergies are now the sixth leading cause of chronic illness in the United States. Almost half of all people with some type of allergy have seasonal allergies.

The fastest way to get rid of allergies.

There isn’t a cure for allergies. But there are some ways to help mitigate or prevent seasonal allergies. We always recommend that you speak to your healthcare provider when considering health solutions for specific conditions. Many people use medications to mask symptoms of allergies and provide temporary relief. Antihistamines (Zyrtec, Allegra, Claritin) are common over-the-counter medications that decrease allergic reactions. Decongestants also help clear sinuses and open up nasal passages. Some people with severe symptoms may opt for allergy shots. These are small injections of the allergen causing a reaction that help build up the body’s immunity.

You can also work on simply avoiding your triggers! Here are some ways to reduce your exposure to seasonal allergens:

•       Stay inside on dry and windy days to avoid pollen swirling in the air.
•       Keep doors and windows closed to keep pollen and dust outdoors.
•       After being outside, change your clothes and shower to remove lingering pollen.
•       Rely on air conditioning to stay cool and use a dehumidifier to reduce dampness inside your home.
•       Use a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter. This type is more efficient at removing small allergen particles from the air.
•       Vacuum your home often, also using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter.
•       Wear glasses and a mask when outdoors to avoid substances entering your eyes, nose and mouth.