Pollen counts are through the roof and can be tough on your allergies. And booze, stress and lack of sleep are among things that can make your allergies worse.
Histamine in beer, wine and liquor created in the fermentation process can cause or worsen symptoms such as itchy eyes and runny nose. The New York Times cites a Swedish study showing women are about twice as likely to be affected as men. Red wine and white wine are the most common triggers.
Stress hormones also can make allergy symptoms worse, according to an Ohio State University study cited in Prevention Magazine. The study shows stress hormones can boost blood proteins that cause allergic reactions. It’s already well established that getting enough sleep can help reduce stress.
Other Prevention Magazine tips to keep allergies in check include taking allergy medicine before bed so it’s in your system when you wake up.
Avoid spreading pollen through your home by washing off as soon as you come in from outside. Or at the very least, bathe before going to sleep to keep pollen out of your bed.
Dust mites in your sheets and pillow cases can set off allergies. To kill them in your washing machine, use the hottest water possible.