As experiments go, this is simply a continuation of a 35 year old experiment of treating and coping with allergy symptoms primarily resulting from pollen (I am 43 now). As an allergy sufferer, I have come to dread Spring and the issues that come with it each year. My treatments over the years have included allergy shots, many over-the-counter medications, and also some occasional lifestyle modifications. My most challenging symptom has always been eye irritation (itching, redness, watering, and swelling) but I also experience the typical other symptoms (such as nasal irritation and stuffiness as well as throat issues.)
As one who is skeptical of "natural remedies", the main reason I am making this record is to document my attempts this Spring to be more intentional in trying some natural remedies which I will describe as I go. In my history, most medications that I have tried have only limited effects on the allergy symptoms that are experienced. Ultimately, I find that only Benadryl and Sudafed bring relief on the most intense allergy days. As a solution, though, the side effects of these medications often outweigh their use until they have to be used as a last resort.
Lexington, KY
