I know, I know, those of us who have chosen to make our home in the Texas Hill Country really have no leg to stand on when it comes to kvetching about our allergies, but we do. We do Kvetch. And when the pollen count is super high (like it is today) coupled with a very high mold count, well…not poking peoples’ eyes out with two fingers is simply the best one can do.

Just got a call from a good friend who wanted me to commiserate with her about her allergies. It’s taken her about 19 years of living in Austin (having moved from Racine, WI with a pit stop in Houston) for her to appreciate our extremely hot summers (because most any living thing gets burnt to a crisp and therefor has nothing to cough out into the ethers in the way of pollen). She asked me if one of the many attributes of being overdosed with pollen was that one could not think and I assured her that was the case.

Put a dose of menopause hormone drop in with the high mold count and it’s a miracle we can get anything done (including making cup after cup of extremely strong coffee). When I finally realized that I had to succumb to allergy shots, it was because I could not talk on the phone without a few pesky pollen particles that had winded their way into my esophagus dislodging themselves which then caused me to cough continuously which made my eyes water and nose and make-up run.

Allergy shots and D-Hyst Homeopathic capsules have made it so that I don’t automatically run screaming for the ocean upon the first wild flower sighting. The affect of these allergies feels like the pollen multiplies in size within our head leaving no room for the usual synaptic activity.

I figure this is as good a time as any to remind those of us who are prone to allergies or depression or rage that this to shall pass. Eventually. And, there are things you can do to lessen the severity of your reaction.

1.) Consider getting allergy tested (and then shots if warranted)

2.) There are several over the counter homeopathic brands that are very good, D-Hyst is one (you can find at People’s Pharmacy), Allertonic is another (Whole Foods and Central Market). Basically, the most important herbs are Nettle, Eye-Bright and Quercitin

3.) If you own your home and can get rid of your carpeting and replace it with wood, fake wood, cement or tile floors–do it. It’s worth it.

4.) Drink plenty of water

5.) Get plenty of sleep

6.) Get your AC checked out

7.) Vacuum and dust often

8.) Consider getting an air filter for your home

9.) If you find yourself getting more agitated then usual, back away from the situation and/or person for now.

10.) If you can’t put two coherent thoughts together more than twice, it is time for you to call it a day.

For all y’all who don’t live in Austin…….this is one of our “True Badges of Courage” that we receive for living in such a wonderful city.

Go peacefully into the night…..and don’t forget your face mask….