Embrace the Holiday Season with Healthy Habits to Combat Allergies and Colds

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Embrace the Season with Healthy Habits!

As we slide into the delightful holiday season full of cheer and family gatherings, there’s something else creeping in—the chillier weather combined with allergy season! While we get busy decorating the tree and preparing for festive feasts, it’s essential to keep our health in check to fully enjoy those special moments with loved ones.

Experts from the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) are sending out a friendly reminder for everyone to be proactive about staying healthy this time of year. Dr. Jessica Grayson, an associate professor in the UAB Department of Otolaryngology, offers some valuable insights. She emphasizes the critical nature of rest, a balanced diet, and steering clear of anyone who’s feeling under the weather. “To stay healthy this holiday season, make sure to get plenty of rest, eat a balanced diet with fruits and vegetables, and avoid contact with people who are sick,” Grayson advises.

Spotting the Differences: Allergies vs. Colds

One of the hiccups that many people experience during this merry time is figuring out whether they have a cold or seasonal allergies. Dr. Grayson breaks it down for us: Allergies usually won’t give you a fever, but they might bring on sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, and even a rash. On the flip side, a cold often includes fatigue, a fever, and may stick around for about seven to ten days.

Five Fantastic Tips for Staying Healthy

To keep your spirits high and your health even higher, Dr. Grayson shares five practical tips that are easy to incorporate into your daily routine:

1. Stay Hydrated: Remember to drink plenty of water! Keeping hydrated not only supports your immune system but also helps to thin mucus and relieve congestion. Warm herbal teas can be especially soothing for sore throats.
2. Maintain a Clean Environment: Indoor allergens like dust and mold can provoke pesky allergy symptoms, especially when we’re all snuggled inside because of the cold. Dr. Grayson suggests regular cleaning in high-traffic areas to keep those allergens at bay.
3. Boost the Immune System: A strong immune system is your best defense against colds and allergy flare-ups. Focus on a diet filled with fruits, vegetables, and proteins to keep your body in shape. If you’re considering supplements like Vitamin C, Vitamin D, or zinc to strengthen your immunity, it’s wise to chat with a healthcare provider first.
4. Manage Stress: The hustle and bustle of the holiday season can lead to increased stress levels, which can impact your immune system. Engage in relaxing activities like yoga, meditation, or simply taking some quiet time for yourself. Don’t underestimate the power of a good night’s sleep!
5. Be Prepared with Over-the-Counter Medications: Make sure to stock up on your go-to over-the-counter allergy meds this season. Following dosage instructions is crucial, and if your symptoms linger or worsen, it might be time to reach out to a healthcare professional.

Enjoy the Holidays!

With these tips in mind, you can focus on the delightful parts of the holidays—like baking cookies, attending festive parties, and spending quality time with your nearest and dearest. Health challenges don’t have to spoil your joyful celebrations as long as you take those proactive steps!

Here’s to a joyful, healthy holiday season filled with laughter, love, and maybe a sprinkle of festive magic in the air!

For more detailed information, feel free to browse the resources available online. Stay healthy and happy this holiday season!