5 ways to beat your fall allergies with your FSA

While allergy season is usually associated with the early spring, fall presents its own unique issues for those who are allergic to mold and ragweed. According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI), allergies to these substances result in allergic rhinitis, which is the medical term for the common allergy season symptoms of sneezing, a stuffy/runny nose, watery eyes and itching of the nose, eyes or the roof of the mouth.

Ragweed reaches its peak during the late summer and early fall, and wet weather combined with lingering warm temperatures can lead to an outbreak of mold spores, so autumn can be especially difficult for seasonal allergy sufferers, reports ACAAI. But if you're enrolled in a flexible spending account (FSA), you can prepare for your worst symptoms as the season kicks off. Here are a few smart ways to spend your tax-free healthcare dollars this fall.

Antihistamines

These are the most common and effective over-the-counter medications to curb allergy symptoms during any season. Antihistamines work by preventing the effects of a substance called histamine, which is produced by the body as an immune response to the presence of an allergen. Histamine can cause itching, sneezing, runny nose, and watery eyes.

Saline Spray

If you find yourself being triggered by the presence of allergens indoors or outdoors, clearing your nasal passages is a quick way bring your symptoms under control. These saline sprays remove allergens, pollutants and other environmental irritants from your nasal passageways to help you breathe easily and keep your allergic reactions at bay.

Neti Pot

While saline spray is great when on the go, many allergy sufferers have found success with Neti pots. These teapot-shaped devices use a homemade saline solution that is poured through the nose to remove allergens and other irritants from your nasal passages. This is a great option for those seeking a drug-free alternative.

Vaporizer

Another way to treat irritated nasal passageways is through the soothing warmth and humidity of a vaporizer. Whether you are suffering from allergy symptoms or a nasty cold, vaporizers can penetrate deep into the sinuses, nose and throat to provide quick relief.

Saline Nasal Wipes

Don't let your nose fall victim to irritation this fall! Saline nasal wipes are perfect for your home, car or backpack, are hypoallergenic and are far softer than standard tissues for when you need to clear out your nose in a hurry.

Sources:

http://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/antihistamine-decongestant-combination-oral-route/description/drg-20069883

http://acaai.org/news/facts-statistics/allergies

http://acaai.org/news/four-things-you-might-not-know-about-fall-allergies