Positive Talk
ALLERGIES CAN BE AN ACHILLES Heel (Part II)
By
Mar 13, 2008 - 6:46:52 PM

In last week’s column, I suggested that spring was a very hard time for many people to maintain a positive attitude because they are affected by runny noses, red and itchy eyes, and sore throats. Like the Greek tale of Achilles who was slain because he had one small weak point, so is it with many of us. For some of us, our weakness is allergies to common objects, many of which are most prevalent in the spring.

Here are some additional ideas that can help to reduce the effects of allergies on your system.

•    Do not be tempted to hang your wet clothes outside to dry in those beautiful spring winds. Imagine how much pollen one wet blouse or shirt can attract and hold once dry. Put your clothes in the dryer and be safe. But be careful of the little softener strips many people use in the dryer; they can also cause allergic reactions for some people.

•    Resist the urge to open the windows and doors to feel the breeze flow through the house. An hour’s worth of spring breeze can dump enough pollen to give you several days of misery.

•    If you have a car with air conditioning, use it. It will be easier on your system and have the side benefit of keeping your car in better shape.

If your allergy is to little microscopic critters called dust mites, there are some additional things you can do.

•    Avoid buying heavily upholstered furniture. If you do have upholstered furniture, you must vacuum it on a regular basis. Dust mites just love an easy chair to call home. Smooth-surfaced furniture such as leather or simulated leather are better bets for those afflicted with dust mite allergies.

•    Bedding should be changed regularly and both mattresses and pillows should be covered in a mite-proof covering available from medical supply houses. Don’t forget to wash those fluffy comforters on a regular basis; they are right up against your face and can carry much of the dust mite dander.

•    Look for a vacuum cleaner that is specifically made to take out the microscopic particles created by the dust mites. Don’t just rely on the sales person. Ask to see laboratory reports on effectiveness. Use that vacuum on a regular basis to clean the whole house. If you are the one who is allergic to the mites, be sure to wear a mask while doing the cleaning, for it is then that the dust is most stirred up.

It is hard to be positive and upbeat when you don’t feel well due to allergies. If your allergies are severe or you do not know what is causing you to feel bad, I urge you to do as I did and go to a qualified medical professional for testing. It was without a doubt one of the best investments that I have made in my own well-being.

Yes, I still have the occasional runny nose and scratchy throat, but it is not near as often or severe. I used to dread to see the trees turn green and the flowers blossom, but now that my allergies are under control, I can enjoy this season of rebirth. So can you with a little effort and planning.


Hodges Hosts Television Program
Bill Hodges also hosts an interview-format television program named “Spotlight On…“, which airs Mondays at 8 p.m., Bright House cable channel 950 and Verizon cable channel 30. His guest for March 24 will be Anthony Trey Traviesa, Florida State Representative, District 56. Representative Traviesa will highlight the achievements of our state legislature from a Republican standpoint. The program will be repeated Wednesday, March 26, at 7:30 p.m. on Bright House channel 949.

Appearing on Monday, March 17 and 31, is Betty Reed, Florida State Representative, District 59. Representative Reed will be reviewing the accomplishments of our state legislature from a Democratic perspective. Between these two programs, one should have a good idea of what is happening in our state government. This program will be repeated at 7:30 p.m. on Bright House channel 949 on Wednesday, March 19 and April 2.

It should be noted that Bright House subscribers who cannot get the higher channels can get—at no installation fee and a monthly one dollar fee—a box to allow access to the upper level government and educational channels. Call Bright House for details on the rental. If you are unhappy about having to pay extra to see your government in action, complain to your state representatives and the Hillsborough BOCC which have either caused this situation or been complicit in allowing it to continue.

For information on the program, contact Hodges by e-mail at bill@billhodges.com.



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