ALLERGIC RHINITIS
Approximately 20 percent of Canadians—about seven million adults and children— suffer from seasonal allergies, also known as hay fever. These allergies occur when the immune system overreacts upon exposure to allergens, substances such as trees, grass, or flower pollen. Some people have persistent, year-long allergies that are triggered by environmental factors such as house dust, mould, animal dander, dust mites, and air pollution.
The immune system responds to these otherwise harmless substances as invaders, similar to how it would react to viruses or bacteria. It produces an antibody against the allergen called immunoglobulin E (IgE), which triggers the release of inflammatory chemicals—histamine, leukotrienes, and prostaglandins. Histamine is responsible for the notorious allergy symptoms of itchy, runny eyes and nose, and sneezing; leukotrienes cause excess mucus production; and prostaglandins trigger inflammation.
Researchers do not completely understand why some people get allergies while others don’t, but there are a few theories. One is the overuse of antibiotics, which causes destruction of the normal flora (bacteria) in the gut. Another is the ultra-hygienic society that we live in. With little exposure to dirt and bacteria, our immune system is primed to respond when faced with a foreign invader.
THE ORIGIN OF «HAYFEVER»
Despite the common name of «hayfever,» allergies are rarely triggered by hay. The name originated in the 1800s when British doctors found that people living in rural areas experienced sneezing and itching with exposure to cut hay or grass. This reaction caused nervousness, which was referred to as «fever,» hence the name «hayfever.»
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
• Cough
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Irritability
• Itchy eyes, nose, roof of mouth, or throat
• Sinus pressure and pain
• Sneezing
• Runny nose and congestion
• Watery eyes
Having allergies increases your risk of developing other inflammatory diseases such as asthma and eczema. Prolonged sinus congestion can increase the risk of sinusitis (infection or inflammation of the sinuses).
RISK FACTORS
• Exposure to cigarette smoke during first years of life
• Exposure to indoor allergens (dust or pet dander)
• Family history of allergies
• Firstborn child
• Gender (men are at greater risk)
DOCTOR’S ORDERS
There are several different types of medications that are used to manage allergy symptoms. Antihistamines block histamine release and improve symptoms of itching, runny nose, and sneezing. Benadryl (diphenhydramine) and Chlor-Tripolon are older antihistamines, which cause substantial drowsiness and are taken every six hours. Newer products cause less drowsiness and are taken once daily. Examples include Claritin, Aerius, Allegra, and Reactine. Side effects include dry eyes, mouth, and nose.
Decongestants relieve sinus congestion (feeling of fullness and pressure). Examples include Sudafed (pseudoephedrine) and phenylephrine. Side effects include insomnia, racing heart, increased blood pressure, and irritability. Avoid use with high blood pressure, glaucoma, or prostate enlargement. Note: Decongestant nasal sprays can cause rebound congestion if used longer than three days.
Cromolyn is a drug that prevents the release of histamine. It is most effective as a preventative (before symptoms start) and is available in eyedrops and nasal spray. Singulair is a prescription drug that blocks the action of leukotrienes. It is taken once daily and may cause headache.
Allergy shots are helpful for some people. These injections contain purified allergen extracts, which desensitize you to allergies. They are given yearly, prior to the allergy season.
Dietary Recommendations
Foods to include:
• Fruits and vegetables provide antioxidants that support healthy immune function.
• Fish, seeds, and nuts contain healthy fats that help reduce inflammation.
• Peppers, onions, and garlic help thin and reduce mucus.
• Wasabi (Japanese horseradish) clears the sinuses.
Foods to avoid:
• Mucus-forming foods such as dairy products, refined flours, and saturated and hydroge-nated fats can trigger inflammation and should be avoided.
Note: People who have seasonal allergies often have food allergies as well. Refer to Appendix D for information on how to do an elimination diet.
Lifestyle Suggestions
• Know your triggers and try to avoid them—pollen production is highest between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m., so avoid the outdoors during this time.
• Heavy rain reduces pollen in the air, making post-shower outings safer.
• Wear a mask when cutting the grass or gardening.
• Don’t dry your clothes outside, as they can collect pollen.
• Use an air purifier to remove allergens from your home.
• Keep your windows closed to prevent pollen from blowing into your home.
• Use a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter on your air conditioner and furnace and change it monthly.
• Use a vacuum with a double bag and a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter.
• Don’t keep cut flowers in the house and minimize indoor plants. Wet dirt allows mould to grow.
Top Recommended Supplements
Aller-7: A combination of seven plant extracts that reduces allergy symptoms when taken regularly. Dosage: 660 mg twice daily for six to 1 2 weeks, then 330 mg twice daily thereafter. There are no serious side effects or interactions.
Butterbur: An herb that reduces inflammation and has antihistamine effects. Dosage: 50 mg twice daily. Studies used a standardized extract providing 8 mg of petasine (an active chemical) three times daily.
Nasaleze: A nasal powder that is inhaled and forms a barrier in the nostrils against allergens. It has no side effects or drug interactions and is safe for children and pregnant women. Several studies have shown that it reduces allergy symptoms and the need for medication. One or two inhalations are used daily as a preventative.
Complementary Supplements
Moducare: A mixture of plant sterols and sterolins (plant fats) that helps balance the immune system. One clinical trial found it reduced allergy symptoms. Dosage: One capsule three times daily.
Probiotics: Help replenish gastrointestinal flora, which is important for immune function. Preliminary research shows benefits for allergies. Dosage: One to three capsules daily.
Quercetin: Aflavonoid with antihistamine properties. Dosage: 500 mg three times daily.
Vitamin C: Helps reduce histamine production and works well with quercetin. Dosage: 1,000 mg three times daily.
Vitamin E: Has antioxidant effects and has been shown to reduce allergic response and nasal symptoms (sneezing, itching, stuffiness, and runny nose). Dosage: 400 IU daily.
FINAL THOUGHTS
To keep allergies at bay, consider the following:
1. Eat plenty of antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, especially garlic, onions, and peppers, nuts, and seeds.
2. Minimize being outdoors in the early morning.
3. Use an air purifier in your home.
4. For prevention, use Nasaleze and/or Aller-7 regularly.
5. To reduce symptoms once they appear, try Butterbur.
