When Grass Attacks
I live for Spring and summer months, figuratively speaking. There are many other things that make me super excited to wake up in the morning but add sunshine and the prospect of vitamin D to that...well, let’s just say you will get few complaints out of me. I am a glass-half-full type of person but I really find my happiness when the temperature increases and there is very little rain to go with it. The only problem is my allergies give zero cares about my heart’s outdoor desires! I’ve had seasonal allergies, what really feels like year-round allergies, as long as I can remember. My big nemesis this time of the year though is grass! I know better but sometimes I have selective memory or I just want to risk it and pray my symptoms won’t be too bad and I venture out to a park or something like that. Let me tell you...when I say, when grass attacks! I almost feel like the grass has somehow lodged itself into my nasal passages and throat to both blocks my breathing and irritate and scratch the lining off my throat! Argh!
Grass pollen allergy or seasonal allergic rhinitis as it is formally known (a whole mouthful), is just the tip of the iceberg for me. If I keep the windows in my house closed - which I hate - or constantly nasal irrigate and stay on top of my RX meds (which I have to take year-round) it doesn’t flatten me or turn into a full-blown sinus reaction. I’m also allergic to a number of other outdoor pollens (hay fever anyone?) and indoor allergens like dust, dust mites, smoke, and the list goes on. A walking wreck. Our winter was very mild and the rain has not been terrible. Allergy season started early and it went from 0 to 100 real quick!
Life’s simple pleasures like sitting in the lush grass to have an iced coffee, read a magazine, and soak up some rays have a penalty for me. But it’s a great way to spend a lazy Sunday afternoon when a Netflix detox is in order. Walking through a gorgeous park and catching a few pictures...well that definitely cost me! It’s how I decided to spend my day a few days ago. Three days and lots of nasty drugs later, I can’t breathe well - one nostril is completely useless - my chest is super tight, and don’t get me started on my throat. Thank goodness for this lanolin product I use for dry areas on my body and my lips at night. My nose is not raw, this stuff is so amazing, for real. It doesn’t irritate my skin and is a great protective barrier. I use it for everything. Check it out here - it’s pretty cheap and one tube lasts a long time.
I would love to know what any of you allergy sufferers have found for natural remedies to get you through the warm months and seasonal allergies. I found this oil, a proprietary blend of peppermint, eucalyptus, melaleuca, lemon, and other essentials that help with nighttime respiratory relief. It’s good for your chest or in your diffuser. But it’s not a preventative option. I’d love to hear some preventative ideas that really work.
I’m glad a have a few pictures from the day at the park. You know how you pray and beg the Lord to get you through something and promise to never do it again? I feel like that’s not just me. Anyway, that is the current situation. My pictures are my fun “before” when grass attacks memories. LOL. Hope you enjoy! xx - C
