As the snow melts away and the sun beckons us outdoors, seasonal allergies come knocking, leaving many with watery eyes, sneezing fits, and itchy mouths. In Canada, where approximately 25% of the population is affected by seasonal allergies, it's a familiar battle for both kids and adults alike. Surprisingly, signs of seasonal allergies can appear in children as young as 2-3 years old, with prevalence increasing as they grow older. But fret not, there's hope in natural remedies to alleviate these pesky symptoms and even prevent their progression.
Understanding the Atopic March
For parents of children with eczema, food allergies, or asthma, the onset of seasonal allergies might not come as a surprise. These conditions share a common denominator: the atopic march. This phenomenon describes the progression of allergic diseases over time. While it might sound daunting, there are strategies to slow or halt this march, and many of them revolve around modifying a certain aspect of the immune system called TH2 dominance.
TH2 Dominance: The Science Behind It
TH2 dominance occurs when the immune system prioritizes the production of certain antibodies to combat perceived threats. This mechanism, also known as humoral immunity, is particularly active during pregnancy to protect the fetus from maternal immune responses. However, in some individuals, this dominance persists and is associated with conditions like eczema, food allergies, asthma, and seasonal allergies.
Natural Remedies for All Ages
For Everyone:
- Change Pillowcases Nightly: Prevent rubbing pollen on your face during sleep.
- Nighttime Baths or Showers: Wash off pollen before bed.
- HEPA Filter: Reduce allergens in your bedroom.
- Nasal Irrigation: Clear sinuses with saline sprays or neti pots.
- Local Honey: Desensitize the body to pollen allergens over time.
For Kids:
- Probiotics: Modify the immune system with strains like Bifidobacterium breve and Lactobacillus.
- Vitamin C: Boost immune function with fruits like oranges and strawberries.
- Quercetin: Reduce histamine release and improve TH2 dominance.
- Nettle: Alleviate sneezing and itching.
- N-Acetyl Cysteine: Block histamine release and reduce inflammation.
For Adults:
- Nettle Infusion: Reduce inflammation with a daily drink.
- Quercetin: Improve TH2 dominance and reduce histamine release.
- N-Acetyl Cysteine: Block histamine release and reduce inflammation.
- Vitamin C: Reduce histamine production in the body.
Dr. Alexis' Favorite Supplements for Allergies
- Xlear Saline Nasal Spray: Clear allergens from nasal passages.
- St Francis Allergy Relief: Herbal blend to reduce allergy symptoms.
- Organika NAC: Reduce histamine release.
- Organika Quercetin with Bromelain: High-quality quercetin supplement.
- Kids 0-9 Allergy Formula: Homeopathic remedy for kids' allergy symptoms.
Conclusion
Seasonal allergies need not dampen your spirits or hinder outdoor enjoyment. By understanding the atopic march and implementing natural remedies like those mentioned above, both kids and adults can find relief and even halt the progression of allergic diseases. Embrace the beauty of the seasons with confidence, knowing that relief is within reach through these natural approaches.
Dr Alexis practices virtually and is accepting patients who live in Ontario. To schedule your appointment, click here
