It's nearly May and I'm still having problems with my allergies. They're not as bad as they were earlier in the spring, but I'm still having to deal with them. This is what has been working for me.
Vicks Vaporub Greaseless Cream: Did you ever see that movie called My Big Fat Greek Wedding? Of course you did. You know how the dad thinks Windex is the cure for every problem in life? Well, my aunt is the same way with what she calls "Vicks salve". She's the one who first turned me on to the greaseless cream. I'm not quite so addicted as she is, but rubbing a dab on my nose takes away the pain of blowing my nose raw, helps alleviate sinus pressure and pain, and reduces congestion. Plus, it's not nearly as yucky feeling as the greasy version.
Neti Pot: I first heard about this from Dr. Oz on TV. Basically, it is a teapot that washes out the inside of your nose. I have to tell you, I don't actually love using this product (who loves getting water up their nose), but it does work for those occasions when you just can't get your nose to stop running any other way. A couple of tips though: 1. The warmer the water is, the easier it is to take. 2. Make sure you have salt and baking soda in the water. 3. It is less effective if you are congested. Do the Vicks first to clear out the congestion and then the neti pot to stop the runniness.
I'm also a big believer in extra soft Kleenex, and yes, I use actual Kleenex brand kleenex. Sometimes there's just no substitute for the good stuff.
Do you get allergies? If so, how do you handle them?
I'm a Neti Pot devotee, too. Consciously Frugal recommends nettle tea, and there is evidence that local honey helps, so those might be worth trying.
ReplyDeleteI use super soft flannel hankies and wash them. Cheaper, earth friendly, and sturdy.
I use Neil Med sinus rinse. There is something it that keeps the water from burning. Again you have to pay for it...but I just can't put a price on breathing. :)
ReplyDeleteI swear by Vick's...it really helps me breathe when my head feels packed with cotton from allergies. I didn't know about the greaseless version. Thanks for the tip!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the tips. After living all over the U.S. without problems, I find myself suffering from allergies in the high desert.
ReplyDeleteI'm not very prone to nasal-type allergies, but my son is. It helps a lot to wash his face! That removes all the pollen that settled near his eyes and nose. When he's especially miserable, I encourage him to change all his clothes and wash his arms, too, and maybe even his hair.
ReplyDeleteHandkerchiefs are even better than super-soft tissues! You can make nice gentle ones out of a worn-out cotton knit garment like a T-shirt.