Daily Health News Blog

Autumn is the favorite time of the year for many of us. Colorful foliage abounds. Humidity drops. We open our windows to let in the breeze and spend long hours outdoors hiking or raking up the falling leaves. Unfortunately, unseen allergens lurk in the crisp, dry air and in all those leaves. Pollen allergies affect nearly 10 percent of our population, approximately 62 million people. They are the fifth ranking chronic disease and cost U.S. businesses and our health care system nearly $8 billion annually. There's no reason to dread the arrival of autumn, however, if we reduce exposure to pollens and molds, thus lessening our symptoms of sneezing, itchy and watery eyes, dry throat, congestion and runny noses, all of which can impair our ability to perform well at school or work. Ragweed pollen is one of the most common reasons for fall allergies. But pollen from other plants, trees, and grass can also trigger symptoms, as can mold. Tips for managing fall allerg...

You've got holes in your head! No offense, you really do. They're your sinuses, one above each eye, one below, and two on each side of the nose.     Sinuses are lined with membranes that produce mucus, the stuff that keeps your breathing apparatus from getting dry. Mucus flows freely in and out of the sinuses, but if you have a cold or allergies, you've got trouble.     Blockage of sinus openings trap bacteria that are normally harmless, but now multiply and cause infection, fever, headache, facial pain and more, according to the Division of Allergy and Immunology at St. Louis University School of Medicine.     To prevent infection, keep sinuses open. Go on the offensive with:     Steam: Inhaling steam thins mucus and helps it drain. Try a hot shower or bath. Applying a warm washcloth to the nasal area can help.     Fluids: Drink at least one glass every few hours to thin mucus. Hot fluids like chicken soup are e...

Spring is in the air – and so are pollen, molds, grasses and dust. Are you one of the millions of people who can’t smell of fresh scents of springtime because your nose is blocked? Over half of all Americans suffer from allergies, so you’re not alone if you’ve been sneezing, coughing or wiping your watery eyes. There are some natural supplements that you can take to help ease allergy symptoms: •Astragalus – A traditional Chinese remedy for allergies, this herb strengthens the immune system. •Butterbur – Taking butterbur supplements may reduce hay fever symptoms. •Evening Primrose – This oil works two ways to suppress allergies. First, allergic reactions cause inflammations and evening primrose oil acts as an anti-inflammatory to decrease the reaction. Secondly, it stimulates the white blood cells that regulate the production of histamines and antibodies. •Gamma Linolenic Acid – GLA has a long history in folk medicine for treating allergies. People who have allergies may requir...