Tips for allergy sufferers

Are your allergies getting the best of you? Then I’ve got a couple of unusual tips for overcoming allergy problems.

A few days ago I told you about a newsletter I received from my health insurance company that included an internet web site with an assessment tool for estimating risk of heart disease (“C Saw” 5/28/03).

In that same issue I found an article about allergy season – something we’re well aware of here in Maryland where we have an abundance of trees, shrubs, flowers, and all of the other flora and fauna that make life miserable for those who have unpleasant reactions to such things (not to mention dust, pets, etc.). For the allergic, any source of relief is more than welcome. Especially if it doesn’t involve loading up on allergy drugs.

So if you’re ready to consider a couple of coping methods that are a little off the beaten path, here are two from my health insurance newsletter that you may not have tried yet.

Tip One: During allergy season, put upholstered furniture in storage.

Sure, that won’t be inconvenient. And sitting on a hard bench while watching television is actually very good for you. Mainly because you’ll only spend about 7 minutes a night watching TV.

Tip Two: Wash yourself.

Who is this tip for? Polar explorers? Nomads of the desert? Cowboys driving herds of cattle? This is useful advice for anyone who only takes a bath once a week (whether they need it or not).

I have to admit, I never would have thought of those tips. Live and learn.

To Your Good Health,

Jenny Thompson
Health Sciences Institute