How Water Can Help Your Allergies

When the seasons change, millions of Americans suffer from the symptoms of allergies, which can be triggered by exposure to substances such as pollen, ragweed, grass, or mold. Many other people experience symptoms from allergies due to dust mites, scents, household cleaners, or animal dander among many other items, that can affect them throughout the year.

Whether your allergies are seasonal or year-round, when you are exposed to something that you are allergic to, your immune system reacts by releasing certain chemicals such as histamines, which can cause a number of symptoms such as watery or itchy eyes, a runny or stuffy nose, fatigue, sneezing or coughing as inflamed and irritated mucus membranes attempt to expel the allergen. Staying adequately hydrated is always essential for good health, but if you suffer from allergies, drinking more water can be especially important, as it can help to thin mucus and enable sinus drainage.

A doctor can help identify your triggers to help you avoid them or manage your symptoms. Allergies are commonly treated with antihistamines and decongestants to help suppress the immune system response and to alleviate symptoms. Yet, taking these medications can have a drying effect on the eyes, nose, mouth and other areas of the body, which can in turn, leave your body more susceptible to bacteria or viruses. Drinking additional water can help flush germs away. 

Steam inhalation is also considered by many as a treatment for allergy symptoms to help loosen mucus, help with congestion and rehydrate the sinuses. However, the water you and your family drink and use matters. There is evidence that certain substances found in tap water such as chlorine and other chemicals and impurities can also trigger allergic reactions. Exposure to potent irritants can lead to more sensitivities, so be sure the water you and your family use and drink is safer. 

Brita PRO customizes its whole-home water filter to remove primary and secondary impurities from your family’s water. Only Brita PRO tests your water with an independent, EPA-certified lab before and after installation to deliver the peace of mind you get when you know that your family is safe.

For more information, or to contact a Brita PRO partner and get your water tested, visit www.britapro.com today.