It’s the sniffling, sneezing, itching, watering, time of year. We are full on into Allergy Season and they are saying it is one of the worst in years!
We all know that allergies are directly related to MISERY, but did you know that allergies may have some relation to Fibromyalgia? Studies have shown that people who suffer from Fibromyalgia are even more prone to allergies than the general public.
(As if Fibro Warriors didn’t have enough to worry about!)
One of the theories as to why allergies and Fibromyalgia are related is called “Central Sensitization.” An allergic reaction is when your body becomes sensitized to a particular substance, causing your immune system to react to a harmless substance. One of these reactions is…you guessed it…inflammation. In Central Desensitization, your entire nervous system becomes reactive. It amplifies pain signals and heightens reactions.
So your allergies may be worse.
Unfortunately, it doesn’t stop there…
There are times when Fibromyalgia sufferers may have the symptoms of seasonal allergies, without the actual seasonal allergies. The muscle tightness and pressure can also affect your NOSE. This pressure, in turn affects your sinuses, which causes the sniffles and postnasal drip.
So, what is a Fibro sufferer to do during this dreadful season?
1.) Try a Neti- Pot: Neti-pots gently flush out and soothe nasal passages with salt water.
2.) Get More Omega-3’s : These fatty acids that are found in fish, meant, and eggs reduce the body’s inflammation.
3.) Local Honey: Eating honey grown locally can work as a mini-immunization to your local pollens, causing less of an allergic reaction!
4.) DRINK WATER: Water helps your body cleanse itself and soothes inflammation.
5.) Take a Hot Shower: The steam will ease the pressure in your nasal passages, the heat will soothe your aches, and you will rinse yourself clean of pollen. Some find that showering twice a day helps with allergy symptoms.
6.) Don’t Turn off Your Humidifier- Moist air soothes nasal passages, but it also bonds with pollen so it isn’t easily inhaled.
Just be very careful with any antihistamine use. Antihistamines cause drowsiness, which can be exacerbated in people with Fibromyalgia, so you should only use them sparingly.
Unless you live in a bubble, seasonal allergies cannot be avoided. Since Fibromyalgia sufferers have heightened responses, you need to be extra vigilant about self-care.
Pamper your body with whole foods, enough sleep, and exercise.
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