EVIL ONE LURKS

But, the evil one lurks, unseen, and is ready to explode onto the scene. Hidden enemies of species man. They are unseen trillions of micro particles called allergens. Mostly, they are pollens from flowers, grasses being the chief culprit. But any kind of flower, (our wattle being one of the worst), or anything that pollinates is a potential for disaster.

These mainly come from the west where there are vast expanses of grass. They drift in wind currents and can travel thousands of kms. Finally to lob at your address. When inhaled, a certain number of "atopic" (sensitized) persons react. Their immune system says "No - go away" Special white blood cells called "mast cells" produce a substance called histamine which quickly travels around the system.

SYMPTOMS

Symptoms quickly develop. Like the irresistible need to sneeze, watery itchy eyes, itchy skin, specially earlobes, dry skin, or any other part. Scratch, scratch. scratch. This gives instant relief, but recurs again ten seconds later.

WHAT TO DO

Drink lots of water which removes histamine from the system. Warms showers only, ending with cold (which shrinks blood vessels reducing histamine itch factor). Then dab body with a very soft towel - do not rub.

Use a non alkaline soap (Dove, pH5.5, QV bar, etc) which is non irritating.
Use liquid tears, or an antihistamine eye drops (chemist) Apply cold face cloth to itchy skin parts - often very soothing.

As pollens drop to ground around sunset, explode, releasing the nasty allergens, try and get inside before sunset. Don't go driving into the country in spring where exposure increases. Don't smoke and avoid smokers which aggravate.

MEDICATION

If symptoms persist medication often helps. Claratyne and Telfast are the standard non sedating antihistamines (pharmacist). As the itch symtom travels on the same nerves as pain, paracetamol can often assist. A mild anti inflammatory cortisone cream may soothe bad spots (but not on the face).

Eurax and other anti itch creams and lotions also can relieve. Ego has a large range. Again, I repeat, do not scratch, for this rips the skin to bits, and may cause infection, an even worse issue.

HOME SWEET HOME

Just reminder. If mum, dad, older rellies are finding the home too big, think "Vimiera Vilage". Here, we provide lovely, friendly, secure accommodation. All outside work carried out. The dedicated "Village Centre" has lots of room for recreation, library, swimming pool, social activity.

Our "Assisted Living Apartments" also provide all meals (cooked on the spot), domestic assistance, provision of line and its laundry.

There is 24/7 on site management, emergency call buttons, elevators, ramps, and grab rails. Plus your own garden plot if a gardener. Phone David on 02 9868 7544. Or log onto vimieravillage.com.au. (special "assisted living" link) I am sure I will see you there. It is operated by Medi-Aid Foundation, a non profit PBI.

I am looking forward to "catching up" next month. Get your friends to subscribe to our monthly Health Newsletter.

Also, more on docwright.com.au, which is updated weekly with lots of health tips, and you can type in your symptom, like a mini google.

Sincerely your friend,