Fight back against allergy season

Many of us are welcoming the warm weather and a chance to be outdoors. But for those who suffer from springtime allergies, the outdoors can be unpleasant. Seasonal allergies can be triggered by an immune response to airborne substances such as the pollens released by grass, weeds and trees. Other contributing pollutants may include mold spores and dust mites. Symptoms can vary from person to person, but they usually include sneezing, a burning or runny nose, and itchy, watery eyes. One of the most common ways to combat seasonal allergies is with over-the-counter medications.

• Antihistamines counteract histamine — a protein that is released during an allergic reaction. Three forms of antihistamines are oral medications, drops and sprays. Oral medications may cause drowsiness, so make sure you read the warning label. Antihistamine eye drops can be used to treat itchy, watery eyes, and nasal antihistamine sprays can help with sneezing and a runny nose.

• Decongestants can help to reduce swelling in the nasal passage and are available as an oral medication or a spray. Be careful when using decongestants for an extended period. Some can actually have an opposite effect over time and make your congestion worse.

Trying to fight seasonal allergies with medication alone may not always be enough. Certain foods can aid in the process.

• Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fatty acids that contain EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), a natural anti-inflammatory. Some good sources of omega-3s are flaxseed oil, salmon, haddock, cod and other cold-water fish. You should beware of omega-6 fatty acids, saturated fats and trans fats which can intensify inflammation and include foods such as cottonseed oil, corn oil, sunflower oil, mayonnaise, salad dressings and fast foods.

• Fresh fruits and vegetables are high in antioxidants which also help to reduce inflammation. Some that are especially useful are those that contain quercetin, a natural compound found in plants. Common foods that are high in quercetin include hot peppers, such as ancho and serrano, onions, apples with the skin, cranberries, kale and tomatoes.

• Spices are an easy way to rev up a dish and many are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. A few good spices to have on hand are turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, pepper and cloves.

Other strategies that you might try to reduce the allergens at your home include: keep your windows closed during peak pollen season, change your air conditioning filters often and opt for ones that have a high allergy-reduction rating, keep your air conditioning vents clean and wear a mask when doing outdoor yard chores.

Try one or more of these tips to make this allergy season more enjoyable. For more information, call me at the Garland County Extension Office on 623-6841 or email jvincent@uaex.edu, or visit our website, http://www.uaex.edu.

EHC

Interested in joining an existing Extension Homemakers Club? For information, email jvincent@uaex.edu or call 623-6841.

Master Gardeners

If interested in becoming a Master Gardener and would like information, attend their monthly meeting at 1 p.m. on the thirrd Thursday of each month at the Elks Lodge; or call the Extension office or email abates@uaex.edu.

4-H

There are 4-H clubs for Garland County youths 5 to 19 years old. For information, call the Extension Office or email Linda Bates, lbates@uaex.edu.