Spring brings sunshine and flowers and, for many people, allergies.
In addition to making days miserable, allergies also can interfere with a good night’s sleep.
To get the best sleep possible, note these natural allergy remedies recommended by Lissa Coffey, a lifestyle, relationship and wellness expert who is a spokeswoman for the Better Sleep Council, the consumer education arm of the International Sleep Products Association:
■ Shower before bed. This helps to wash off any allergens.
■ Keep bedroom windows closed.
■ Change sheets and pillowcases regularly.
■ Take a steam bath to help loosen congestion. This makes breathing easier.
■ Have a cup of hot tea (herbal tea, not caffeinated) or hot water with lemon, to loosen congestion.
■ Use a nasal saline rinse. This helps reduce swelling in the nasal passages and washes out any pollen that might be in the nose.
■ For those with pet allergies, keep pets off the bed, and if possible, out of the bedroom.
■ Encasements for mattresses and pillows offer protection against dust mites.
■ Check the heating and air-conditioning system. Make sure filters are clean.
■ Vacuum carpets and furniture often.
■ To add moisture to the air, consider using a humidifier. Make sure the water is changed frequently so that mold doesn’t grow.
