April 12 , 2004
Depending on the weather and when the winter begins to turn to warmer weather, mold can act as a powerful trigger for allergic reactions. Some people are acutely aware of this fact due to their symptoms and suffering. Others have increased allergic reactions and may not even realize they are being aggravated by mold
sensitivity.
This reality can be further aggravated by the fact that "mold season" can be quickly followed by pollen season and symptoms can continue to worsen. For asthmatics this can all prove to be an extremely dangerous time of the year and they must keep in close contact with their family physicians to be proactive, so their conditions do not become aggravated by reactions to mold.
As an article in the Berkshire Eagle explained (Allergies can trigger asthma attacks, Tuesday, March 30, 2004), " … many sufferers don't know that pollen or other allergens are triggering their asthma attacks…". In fact anything that can make increased demands of the immune system may have the potential to aggravate allergic reactions and asthma.
For similar reasons people can succumb to dangerous upper respiratory infections, colds and flu conditions and then react to airborne allergens as well and aggravate their asthma problems. Your health can be effected by a series of incidents that can begin to all work together to lower your immune capability and leave you more prone to other health problems.
One of the ways to avoid the above scenario is by taking steps to help keep your immune system as strong as possible. Eating well and avoiding foods you know you are intolerant of or allergic to is vitally important during times of increased reactivity to other allergens that are airborne. Drinking lots of water and getting rest is also important.
Try not to overdo coffee, sugar, alcohol, deep fried foods and fast foods. In fact, try to eat a diet that is very simple that includes lots of vegetables and fruit with lean proteins and whole grains (for some, non-wheat based grains may be best). Yogurt can be an important food since it can contain acidophilus which is very important for normalizing your intestinal flora and can strengthen your immune function. This can be supported by a digestive enzyme and fish oil supplement.
There is no coincidence that during this time of the year traditionally herbalists of old and in recent times as well, recommend taking herbs called bitters to act as a cleanse for your digestive tract and elimination system. They know that this time of the year is important for not only "external" spring cleaning but "internal" spring cleaning as well. Most importantly, have a healthy and safe spring season so you can enjoy this wonderful time of the year.
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