A Few Words About My Allergies

My allergies have been worse than usual this year. I've been taking a steady dose of antihistamines and decongestants, but nothing seems to work (or is taking an incredibly long time to work). So far, the medication has only succeeded in confusing my nose, which can't decide if it's runny or stuffy.

One of the reasons autumn and winter are my favorite seasons is that my allergies take a long vacation during that time of year. I never know where they go and I never ask. Before, I imagined they booked trips to tropical destinations with sandy beaches to recuperate before returning in the spring. Now I suspect they actually participate in winter leagues or spring training camps to hone their sinus-attacking skills. And while I have no solid proof, I wouldn't be surprised if some of them were using steroids.

I blame the weeds and wind for most of my suffering. The acres of barren soil surrounding the neighborhood are now acres of bountiful weeds, three to four feet tall. When the winds pick up, they move like ocean waves. On extremely windy evenings, I picture the fields releasing great quantities of pollen into the air that roll across the valley like fog.

This evening, when I get home, I'm staying inside to avoid the pollen, keeping the windows closed and launching a major assault on the indoor allergens. This will involve wearing a hazmat suit (or maybe just a face mask) to dust, vacuum, wash the bedding and replace the air filter (with an allergen filter). The effort will hopefully help me get a handle on my allergies.