How to Survive Spring-Time Allergies

Allergies affect most of us. Some deal with the runny nose, sneezes and watery eyes. While others of us experience the unsteadiness that vertigo brings. Whatever the symptom, following these tips will help us in our move towards an allergy free season.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. To control pollens and molds avoid:
   
   • Humidifiers –humidity promotes the growth of mold.
   • Wall paper and carpets in bathrooms – mold can grow under them.
   • Mowing the law

2. In your homes and automobiles:
   
   • Ventilate bathrooms, basements and other dark, moist places where mold can grow.
   • Use air conditioning: it removes excess air moisture, filters out pollen from the outside and provides good airflow and circulation throughout your home. Change filters monthly.
   • Drive with the air conditioner on
   • Keep house doors and windows shut during pollen season.

3. To control animal dander:
   
   • When pets must be inside, don't let your pets sleep in the same room with you.
   • Bathe pets and wash pet bedding at least once weekly to remove dander and collected pollens.
   • Use a high-efficiency particulate air filter in the bedroom.

4. To avoid and/or control dust mites:
   
   • Don't use ceiling fans, this stirs and spreads the dust.
   • Dust and vacuum weekly
   • Remove wall-to-wall carpeting in the bedroom.
   • Cover mattresses and pillows with allergy-proof cases to stop the invisible dust mite allergens.
   • Wash bedding in hot water each week to kill the microscopic mites.

Tips & Warnings

• After dealing with vertigo for years and finally seeing an Ear, Nose and Throat doctor, I discovered my problem was mostly related to allergies. The rigorous tests the doctor performed included a balance test, an Electronystagmography, which is a test to look at voluntary and involuntary eye movements. It evaluates the acoustic nerve , which aids with hearing and balance. I also had the usual round of allergy testing. My doctor didn't discover or uncover anything drastic, but now that I know vertigo is related to allergies, when the dizziness sets in, I break out my sinus and allergy medications. The bouts of vertigo have drastically reduced in number and severity