You guys will probably remember Topher from his interview, but you may not know that he is a Nationally Certified Clinical Medical Assistant, a Certified Nursing Assistant and a medical attache to a LGBT charity organization. Big words for a big heart! And with the launch of the new BCC, Topher will be bringing hints, reports and advice for a healthier and happier life! So cool…
It’s Springtime! And for many bears and cubs, that also means warfare with a very annoying foe, seasonal allergies. As one of the millions who suffer from seasonal allergies, I share your pain. In this article, I am sharing with you different ways to help stand your ground against seasonal allergies and homeopathic/herbal solutions on how to better prepare yourself for the fight.
*Note: Topher the MediCub’s advice is not to replace orders and advice given by your regular health care professional. If you feel you have concerns with your health, consult your physician immediately. Advice given here is advice based on self-studies by Topher the MediCub and his allies. Should anything advised not work with you, know that everyone is still different in health, and these remedies may not work for you*
So, how do you stand your ground from seasonal allergies and not become a shut-in from other bears and cubs?
1) “Avoid the source!”: No, not the source from the popular TV show, “Charmed”, but the source of your allergens. May it be cats, dogs, flowers or even fresh-cut grass (one of my foes), try to limit your visit near these things. If you go to a home that has a cat or a dog or both, try your best not to touch or pick up and hold that animal. If you do, immediately wash your hands. Try to make the visit short, but don’t be rude about the departure either.
2) Itchy, irritated, or “dry” eye: Usually this is caused by the wind or water. It’s not unusual, especially this time of year. Use an over-the-counter eye solution such as Visine Allergy (It usually does the trick and Visine does carry many forms of solutions based for many eye symptoms). Or simply use clean water to gently rinse your eyes. If these don’t work for you, use an anti-histamine. *Note: Use an anti-histamine that doesn’t cause drowsiness and doesn’t interact with your blood pressure. If you are unsure on which to use, either visit the pharmacy help desk or contact your health care provider.*
3) Face and eyes hurt from sinus pressure?: There are several “housewife” remedies out there. One that is a sure bet is to use a washcloth that was soaked with warm water (never hot!) and place on the face from cheekbone up. Afterward, use cool cucumber slices on the eyes. The warm cloth will make things flow alot easier and the cool cucumber will assist with the puffiness and eye pain (and makes you feel like you are at a spa). Aleve (naproxen sodium pain relievers) is a good OTC (Over the Counter) to use to relieve some of the pain and it doesn’t interfere with your HBP (High Blood Pressure).
4) If you haven’t already, make your home smoke-free. The smoke is a strong inhibitor to your allergens. It makes you cough, sneeze, itchy eyes, and it lingers. And do we need to talk about second-hand smoke?!
5) After being outside working, relaxing or on a nature hike, you should shower with a non-fragrant soap and wash your hair twice. The pollens and other allergens tend to linger something fierce.
Herbs and other Remedies:
If you are like me, taking pills constantly isn’t my cup o’ tea – especially if some of the medications tend to interfere with my high blood pressure. Thus I result to taking herbal supplements as a helping agent against seasonal allergies etc. Here are some simple tools you can find at your local multi-functional retail store (i.e.: Wal-Mart, Target, K-Mart, Costco, etc…) or even GNC.
1) Echinacea Purpurea- This Native American herb is awesome to enhance your immune system from minor ailments. According to some studies, it can help with the increase production of T-cells and their distribution into the blood stream.
Recommended dose: (1) 350mg 3x a day
2) Garlic Tablets: used as a natural tool with minor respiratory ailments and congestion. *Note: Some people, when taking garlic tablets, may undergo a slight low or high blood sugar spike. Check with your health care provider before practicing with this tableted herb if this may be a concern of yours*
3) High anti-oxidant fruits, vegetables and beverages: Digesting fruits and vegetables with anti-oxidants are a great way to increase your immune system, along with having a cup of hot (or cold) green tea or white tea 3 times a day.
An OTC drug that I find incredibly handy to have around when congested or having a sinus infection, Mucinex. Just follow the instructions on the box.
Above all else, just remember what your mother always told you: drink plenty of fluids, take vitamin C, learn how to relax, and above all else, use common sense.
Stay strong, brothers!
Topher the Medicub
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