That time of year again...

Allergies, a word we have all grown to know and hate! Allergies can be ruthless and seem endless, especially at peak times, which in Chicago, we seem to be in right now! PollenCasts are high for the next few weeks so this post is just in time! Although there is no way to cure allergies, there are ways to help tame the awful symptoms.

Netipots are one of my favorite tools for clearing out sinuses. They work wonders...I have gone from fully stuffed up, unable to breath or taste, to breathing clearly within minutes. They involve rinsing out sinuses with a saline solution helps to break up and loosen mucus and remove any allergens. if you have never used a Neti Pot, it is a very weird sensation and may take a little getting used to, but trust me, the benefits are worth it! Having a vaporizer or humidifier in your bedroom at night will also help keep airways moist.

Hot showers will help open the nasal passages and airways and help clear them out, improving sinus pressure and breathing overall. It is also important to rinse off or shower after being outdoors during peak times. The steam will help moisten nasal passages and flush out mucus. If you do not feel like fully showering, you can drape a towel or sheet around your head while positioningyourself over a bowl of boiling water or sink with running hot water. You can increase the effect of the steam by adding a menthol-scented oil to the water or sink, such as eucalyptus or peppermint.

Nasal and airway inflammation is a common symptom of allergies and causes a lot of discomfort. Butterbur is an herb that may help control some of this inflammation. Bromelain, found in pineapples, is also something that can help decrease inflammation and help relieve symptoms.

Tea, especially peppermint is a great way to help loosen up the airways and break up the mucus and have a decongestant effect. Spicy foods may also have a temporary decongestant effect because they open the nasal passages, causing the nose to run and will help to clear out any built up mucus.

Even if we are able to help diminish some of the symptoms of allergies, even temporarily, it's worth trying. If you happen to try any of these out, let us know if they worked for you...and if you know of any that I did not include int he list, please feel free to share. Allergy season is upon us and it is supposed to be one the worst years for allergens so the more we can do to try and fight them, the better!