Allergies can be debilitating. Sneezing, watery eyes, congestion, headaches are just a few symptoms. For some, allergies create fatigue from the reactions and lack of sleep associated with the symptoms. Certain foods can make symptoms worse. A great way to reduce the symptoms along with medical treatment and antihistamines is through nutrition.
Ragweed
Ragweed has many species, and the pollen can be found 400 miles out to sea. It thrives in rural areas and can be at its peak in urban areas between 10 in the morning to 3 p.m. Because ragweed species are common within the United States, makes it difficult to avoid. It can lay dormant for years until the right climate presents itself. Places that are worse with ragweed are parts of Texas, Kansas, Missouri, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, and Tennessee.
The symptoms associated with ragweed are like hay fever. Itchy and watery eyes. Sneezing, nasal congestion and may have coughing. Those with asthma may suffer an asthmatic response, or it can become worse along with severe sinus pressure and infections. Some may even experience ear pain if the excess fluid has built up in the ear canal.
There are ways to keep your allergy symptoms at bay. Your doctor can assist you with immunotherapy and antihistamines. In addition, there are ways you help them at home, reduce interaction with the pollen, and avoid foods that you should not consume during ragweed season.
Foods to Avoid
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Banana
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Cantaloupe
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Cucumber
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Honeydew
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Watermelon
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White potato
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Zucchini
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Sunflower seeds
Oral Allergy Syndrome
Oral Allergy syndrome or OAS is a reaction that occurs when your body interacts with pollen similar to the pollen of certain foods. For example, if you are allergic to ragweed and eat a banana during the height of ragweed season you may notice some uncomfortable symptoms. It is uncommon for young children to exhibit symptoms. Typically it affects teens and young adults.
- Itchy mouth;
- Scratchy throat;
- Lips, mouth and throat swelling.
Exposure
If you eat any foods that stimulate OAS and are having a reaction, take an antihistamine immediately and stop eating the food until you consult with your doctor. Drink plenty of water and make an appointment.
Management
Not all individuals allergic to ragweed or other environmental allergies will have these reactions when eating these foods. However, if you have these reactions, it is best to avoid them or peel and cook the foods for meals that cause OAS. This can limit or stop the reactions with proper food handling.
If you just have the symptoms of ear pain, congestion, and headaches, then antihistamines will help if taken two weeks before ragweed begins. Administer hydrogen peroxide and warm rags to the inflamed ear (s). Neti pots can help clear out excess mucus in the nasal cavity. A saline solution for your nose for a quick way to clear your nose can help in between neti pot uses.
