Showering also has the added benefit of steam therapy, which is incredibly effective as a decongestant, and can help soothe irritated sinuses.

Eat Smart

Science has shown that some dietary changes and supplements can help ease your allergy symptoms. Probiotics have anti-inflammatory effects, and studies have shown that they may even be beneficial in preventing the development of allergies in babies when taken during pregnancy. Spicy foods containing mustard and horseradish can help stimulate the nasal cilia to break up congestion, while garlic acts as a natural decongestant. While studies have provided mixed results, some people find relief from seasonal allergies by eating raw, local honey, which works similarly to immunotherapy by exposing and desensitizing the body to local pollens, which may trigger an immune reaction. This can be especially helpful when relocating or spending time in a new area, which may have new pollens that may trigger allergic reactions.

Seek Medical Advice

As with all medical conditions, you should schedule an appointment with your doctor to discuss what treatment options are best for you. Allergies may be manageable with natural, home remedies, but you may be wise to schedule allergy testing to determine if there are lurking allergies that you haven’t discovered yet - especially ones that may leave you susceptible to potentially life-threatening complications. There are a range of tests that can be administered to determine just what allergies you have.

If you have a serious allergy, such as some food allergies, you may be advised to share this information with schools, employers, coworkers, and others who may be called on to take action if you have an anaphylaxis reaction. You may also be advised to carry with you an epinephrine autoinjector, called an EpiPen, or to keep one at your workplace or school, and familiarize yourself with the early symptoms of such a reaction so that you can take immediate, life-saving action if this complication occurs.