Surviving Saharan Dust- Ten Tips to Cope with Dust Haze Season

Where are my fellow allergy sufferers? I know, I know, you've been sniffling and battling a dry cough since the Saharan dust decided to make its way across the Atlantic. What about itchy eyes? Not to mention the breathing problems that asthma sufferers are prone to. While we're trying to cope, the unwelcome visitor sits comfortably over Trinidad and quite a few times I mistook the gray cloudlike mass to be a sign of rain. If you do suffer with allergies you know it's already a burden on a regular day, but with the Saharan dust hovering over the atmosphere it feels like we have to amp up our defense against allergies which are now magnified by ten. Here are some ways you can manage your allergies during this difficult time:

1. Use your regular allergy medicine- Whether it's eyedrops, pills or a syrup, your antihistamine medication is your best friend right now. Be sure to take your medicine according to the recommended dosage and use non drowsy formulas if you have to drive.

   
   

2. Limit time outdoors- If possible, cut down on the amount of time you spend outdoors.

   
   

3. Drive with your windows up- Some people prefer to drive without the AC running. Whether it's because it's not functioning or you don't have to worry about your hair getting stuck to your lipgloss like me, maybe you just prefer fresh air, please consider sending the windows up. The air outside is not fresh, I repeat, the air outside is not fresh.

   
   

4. Cover your face- If you're comfortable wearing a dust mask you can utilize those. Personally, a dust mask makes me sweat and I feel my breathing is constricted, if your experience is the same, try a rag or bandana to hold over your nose when spending short periods of time outdoors.

   
   

5. Always carry inhalers- Asthma sufferers, you should NEVER leave the house without your inhalers. For people who are prone to sinusitis, Vicks and Olbas Oil inhalers are quite helpful.

   
   

6. Use an air cleaner- An ionic air purifier attracts dust, allergens and bacteria and helps to purify the air within a confined space. I found a Vivitar Air Purifier/Ionizer for just TT$225.00 at Excellent Stores at C3 Centre San Fernando. I initially purchased it to combat smoke fumes since my neighbours' hobbies include burning garbage everyday, it works great for dust as well.

   
   

7. Use an oil diffuser- An oil diffuser works by dispersing essential oils into the air. This makes oils easily absorbable by the body. Essential oils such as peppermint, eucalyptus, lemon and tea tree oil all have healing benefits and effectively help to alleviate allergy symptoms. I implemented aromatherapy into my nighttime routine even before Saharan dust was an issue and it has been a God sent. The oil diffuser and essential oils I use are all from the Gurunanda brand which I purchased at SuperPharm La Romain. The oil diffuser was TT$250, however, I have seen cheaper brands at Pricesmart and Amazon.com.

   
   

8. Salt-water flushing- Saline solution is great for flushing mucus and allergens from your nostrils. If you're also prone to sinus infections, it's imperative to implement this step. You can use a neti pot or try an over-the-counter solution. Arm and Hammer Saline Solution works well and it's relatively inexpensive. I prefer a fresh homemade mixture which I usually mix with one-part warm water and one teaspoon of salt. I put the mixture into a spray bottle and use it to spray my throat and nostrils.

   
   

9. Up your water intake- Good old H2o never disappoints. Water regulates your histamine levels and by extension helps your body to respond better in the event of an allergic reaction. Stay hydrated at all times.

   
   

10. Seek medical attention from a qualified medical practitioner if your symptoms are out of control or you have severe breathing problems.

It seems like every time we think it's going to be over, the Met Office announces that another surge of Saharan dust is approaching at critical levels. Can we get a break already? If you're one of the lucky ones who don't have to worry about it, the least you can do is check on your friends who do...we are not okay.

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