Is It A Cold Or An Allergy?

(CARLSBAD, CA) - The symptoms are familiar: nasal congestion, sneezing, sinus pain, itchy eyes, and coughing, but what you may be chalking up as a typical cold could actually be an allergic reaction. How can you know for sure?

If your “cold” resurfaces at the same time each year, or whenever you visit your sister in Denver (who happens to have two cats), or if one of your parents suffers from allergies, you may need to reconsider your diagnosis and visit an allergy specialist.

Airborne allergens, such as dust mites, mold, pet dander and pollen, affect the broadest population and produce symptoms most similar to colds.  They are also the most difficult to avoid, but you can limit your exposure with the following tips:

— Vacuum your home often with a vacuum cleaner that has an air filter.

— Wash your skin and hair frequently, especially after you’ve been outside or in close proximity to animals. Even without direct contact, allergens can settle on your body and aggravate symptoms.

— To limit exposure to dust mites, change your bed sheets often and wash them in hot water. Dust mites love warm, humid areas, so covering your mattress and pillows in plastic, which prevents this type of environment, is also a good idea.

— Keep your windows and doors closed during peak allergy seasons. Run your air conditioner as well.

— Keep pets out of the bedroom.

— Stay indoors during peak pollen times, usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

If you’re saddled with allergy symptoms even after exercising your best preventive measures, there are treatments available. Over-the-counter medications fall into one of two categories – antihistamines, which stop allergy symptoms from developing, and decongestants, which clear nasal passages and improve breathing. Your pharmacist can help steer you in the right direction.

When over-the-counter medications don’t provide enough relief, a trip to your doctor may be in order. He or she may prescribe anti-inflammatory medication or stronger antihistamines to treat symptoms or recommend allergy shots to increase your immunity to the allergens that affect you.

Hay fever sufferers often find it easier to exercise indoors during peak seasons. Group exercise classes, treadmills, and step training are just a few of the many indoor workouts you can try, says Judi Sheppard Missett, founder of Jazzercise.  The following step exercise is a great way to increase your heart rate while exercising to your favorite music. 

Stand behind the step and place your right foot squarely on the stepping platform.  Step up with your left foot placing your feet in a wide stance.  Step down with your right foot followed by your left, then repeat the movements 8 to 10 times before reversing them by starting with the left leg.  Your rhythm will be “up, up, down, down,” coordinating with the “1, 2, 3, 4” counts of the music.  Choose music of a moderate tempo that allows you to safely execute the moves while moving fast enough to elevate your heart rate.

Jazzercise, created by Judi Sheppard Missett, is the world's leading dance-fitness program with more than 6,800 instructors teaching 30,000 classes weekly in the U.S. and around the globe. Since 1969, millions of people of all ages and fitness levels have reaped the benefits of this comprehensive program, designed to enhance cardiovascular endurance, strength, and flexibility. For more information on Jazzercise go to jazzercise.com or call (800)FIT-IS-IT or (760)476-1750.

Courtesy of Jazzercise, Inc. - jazzercise.com