Health Tip: Got Hay Fever?

(HealthDay News) -- Hay fever causes allergy symptoms like itchy eyes and ears, runny nose, cough and sneezing. The American Lung Association offers these suggestions on how to deal with these complaints:

• When pollen counts are high, keep windows closed. During the warm days of summer, run the air conditioning to limit the allergens coming into your home.
• Use an air purifying device in the home.
• If you have to work outdoors, wear a dust mask to avoid breathing in allergens.
• Antihistamines or decongestants may help relieve symptoms.
• Inhaled steroids or allergy shots may also reduce symptoms, but must be prescribed by a doctor.
• Avoid using nasal sprays, as they can dry the nasal passages and eventually make allergy symptoms worse.

-- Diana Kohnle

Last Updated: Nov. 13, 2006

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