If you're not lucky enough to live in one of the best cities for grass pollen allergies, managing your allergies can be a year-round affair. There are many ways to avoid allergic reactions and manage symptoms as they come. From taking antihistamines to covering up, you have many options.
One popular at-home method for dealing with allergies is taking a shower. But does taking a shower work? If so, when should you take one?
How Allergies Affect You
Before we get into the benefits of showering, let's go over how allergies can affect you. Common allergens affect millions of Americans every year. When plants release pollen in the spring and summer, issues worsen. If you don't live in one of the best cities for grass pollen allergies, stepping outside can be a nightmare.
That said, countless other allergens could affect you. For example, some people are sensitive to dust or animal dander.
Whatever the case, breathing in those allergens triggers an immune response. Your immune system releases histamines into the bloodstream, leading to inflammation. That's why you experience watery eyes, a runny nose and awful congestion.
Your body thinks the allergens are dangerous invaders, so the immune system overcompensates.
Antihistamines and decongestants can address allergy symptoms. There are also long-term solutions to mitigate the effects of exposure. For example, immunotherapy can train your immune system not to overreact when your body encounters an allergen.
How Showering Helps Allergies
If you don't want to rely on over-the-counter medications, showering can help allergies in many ways. It can prevent allergic reactions from occurring and provides relief from some of those unwanted symptoms.
The best time to take a shower is immediately after spending time outside. But why?
Showering helps to wash away any potential allergens that stick to your skin or hair. Allergens are microscopic and practically invisible to the naked eye. You might not see them, but it's common for tiny bits of pollen or dust to stick to your body. Eventually, they can become airborne in your home.
Showering can also relieve congestion. The steam from a hot shower will loosen mucous, allowing you to clear your airways and breathe easier.
Author Resource:-
Alester Brown is a certified immunotherapist. She advises people on personalized home allergy and skin treatment at home. You can find her thoughts at allergy care blog.