In the spring, the greening of the trees and the blooming of the flowers and the spread of pollen in the air cause many problems, especially in people with allergies. Complaints manifested by redness of the eyes, runny nose and congestion, nasal discharge, sore throat, cough and even shortness of breath can often be confused with upper respiratory tract infections. Acıbadem Fulya Hospital Specialist Dr. Aynur Ketene said, “Spring allergies are triggered by pollens, that is, when the nasal mucosa of sensitive individuals comes into contact with pollen, some mixed mechanisms start to work in their bodies and symptoms occur. It is the immune system that is responsible for allergies. Our immune system perceives pollen as dangerous and defense systems called antibodies are activated. Allergic reactions begin, histamine is released. As a result of histamine release, complaints such as runny nose, itchy nose, sneezing, redness of the eyes, ringing under the eyes and coughing occur. Dr. Aynur Ketene explained 8 effective measures that can be taken against spring allergies these days, when allergic complaints are widespread, and made important warnings and suggestions.
consume enough water
Adequate water consumption is important in the functioning of the body, excretion of toxins and balancing the immune system. According to your body weight, attention should be paid to drinking an average of 40 ml of water per kilogram. Drinks such as tea and coffee do not replace fluid intake. On the contrary, it affects the body negatively by causing more excretion of fluid in the body.
Eat gut-friendly foods
It is the immune system that is responsible for allergies. Our gut is responsible for 80 percent of the immune system. Stay away from ready-made, industrial diets with additives that lead to deterioration of the gut microbiota. Consume plenty of fiber and probiotic foods that strengthen the intestinal system. For example; Intestinal-friendly foods such as artichokes, kefir, pickles, yogurt, carrots, zucchini, walnuts and almonds strengthen the fight against allergic reactions. Onions and garlic help reduce excess mucus, while vitamin C reduces allergy symptoms.
Get enough and quality sleep
While quality and adequate sleep strengthens the immune system, it helps with immune system related problems such as allergies. The hormone melatonin, which is one of the strongest antioxidants that removes toxins from the body and prepares the person for the next day, is secreted between 23.00 and 03.00, especially during the night. Therefore, be sure to sleep at these times.
Steer clear of toxins
Staying away from toxins such as cigarettes, alcohol, perfumes, sprays and exhaust fumes contributes to the immune system by reducing the accumulation of toxins in the body and the burden of the liver. Toxins such as deodorants with aluminum, foods with additives, hair dyes, shampoos and make-up materials also create a burden in the body, negatively affecting the immune system and triggering allergies. Unnecessary antibiotics also weaken the immune system by destroying gut-friendly bacteria. This increases the risk of allergies.
Do not dry clothes in your room or outside.
Do not dry the laundry outside or in the room you are in, as it triggers allergies. Otherwise, drying clothes in the room you are in will cause you to be exposed to the smell of detergent and trigger allergies. Drying clothes outside, especially in the spring, also causes the pollen to stick on the clothes and thus increase your allergic complaints. If there is no dryer, hang it in another room and then ventilate the room.
Wear a mask against pollen
Do not go out during these hours unless necessary, as pollens spread between 05:00 and 10:00 in the morning. Do not ventilate the house when pollen is high. When you go out, you can wear a pollen mask to cover your mouth and nose, and protect your eyes with sunglasses.
Avoid excess items in the room
Do not keep too many items, especially in the room where you sleep. Dust-proof items such as plush toys, carpets and blankets also trigger allergies, leading to an increase in allergic disorders. Take care to wash your duvet cover sets at 60 degrees every week. If there is a cat or dog in your house, make sure that they do not enter the room you sleep in. Vacuum your house frequently and dust with a damp cloth. Use a high-efficiency particle catcher, that is, an air conditioner with a hepa filter, and clean the house with a vacuum cleaner with a hepa filter. Change your clothes as soon as you get home and wash your hands often during the day.
Exercise regularly
Working in Functional Medicine, Dr. Aynur Ketene says, “Regular exercise is extremely important in every aspect for a healthy life, it strengthens the immune system and supports the fight against allergies.”
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