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healing ways
s the one in five Americans suffering from allergic rhinitis can miserably testify, the fragrant breezes of spring aren’t much fun when they bring on sneezing, coughing, watery eyes and a runny nose. The fifth-most common chronic disease in the country, allergic rhinitis—also known as hay fever—is aggravated in spring by rising pollen levels, but can occur year-round from exposure to mold, household dust mites, pet dander and vehicular air pollution. Common remedies like over-the-counter antihistamines and decongestants bring their own share of afflictions, including drowsiness, dry mouth, blurred vision and dizziness. “By undertaking natural therapy for allergies, however, one can avoid and mitigate the unpleasant symptoms of allergies with no need for medication,” says Carrie Lam, M.D., an integrative and functional medicine doctor in Tustin, California. “Instead of loading up on drugs, you can take care of yourself in a more natural way and avoid nasty side effects.” Here are some non-pharmaceutical approaches.
Breathe Easy Natural Remedies for Allergy Woes by Ronica O’Hara
Probiotics: In a 173-person, double-blind study, a probiotic blend of Lactobacillus gasseri KS-13, Bifidobacterum bifidum G9-1 and Bifidobacterium longum MM-2 lowered hay fever symptoms and improved participants’ quality of life during allergy season, report University of Florida
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