Sunday, April 8, 2007

Happy Easter Sunday - and Allergy Tips

For those of you who celebrate Easter Sunday whether at home or at Church, I would like to wish you blessings and give you some tips on how to handle the scents and/or allergens that might be present.

If you are not religious or are of another faith, these tips can still help in any other public place.

I have a hard time going to places like Churches and Malls due to the high number of people wearing perfume and cologne which makes me ill, if not immediately, the next day. When I know I have to go, I prepare before by taking an extra dose of vitamins and minerals (within suggested limits). I try and find a spot with good ventilation and if by any chance someone I cannot tolerate sits next to me I will make an excuse to move if it is possible.

When I return, I immediately shower, change clothes and often use the Grossan Hydropulse to flush out my nasal passages.

The difference it makes in my well being is quite significant. If I forget or am unable to shower and change right away, there is a high correlation between that and the frequency of feeling ill within the next 24 hrs or so.

If you don't have the ability to change and shower soon after exposure but are aware that such exposure tends to make you ill, there are a few short term solutions:

  • Keep moving (walking around) so that breathing in the absorbed scents in your hair and clothing are minimized
  • Place a small directional air purifier to keep a constant clean airflow around the place you sit. A small portable or battery powered fan can also help.
  • Wear a cap, hat or scarf over your hair - (hair is porous and absorbs scents very quickly)
  • Wear a mask that is appropriate for the stuff you are sensitive to. Pollen and dust typically only requires a particle mask, carbon masks are required to reduce scents.
Note: Due to automatic scent desensitizing after a period of exposure, you may not notice the residual smell of the stuff you are breathing until it is too late and you start feeling ill.

YMMV (your mileage may vary) - meaning that you may have to experiment to see what works best for you.

I wish you a wonderful day and hope this information may help you or a loved one in some small way.

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