Expert tips on proper nasal hygiene
Spring is here and, for many of you, that means you’re at the mercy of seasonal allergies. We spoke with Dr. Rémi Gagnon, who is head of allergy and immunology services at the Laval University Hospital Centre in Quebec City, and who has teamed up with hydraSense to promote proper nasal hygiene as well as teach Canadians how to gain control of their allergies. Read on for his expert advice!

How prevalent are seasonal allergies?
“About 25% of North Americans suffer from seasonal allergies,” Dr. Gagnon tells us. And there are multiple factors, be it pollution, genetics, or hygiene.

Also, according to the Canadian Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Foundation, 20 to 25% of Canadians suffer from allergic rhinitis, which is an inflammation of one’s nasal passages when they breathe in allergens. Allergic rhinitis, says Dr. Gagnon, can also develop into asthma.

What are some of the symptoms of an allergic reaction?
When an allergen enters the nose, inflammation occurs. Aside from a runny and blocked nose, post-nasal drip (where excess mucus accumulates in the back of your nose and in the throat) can occur, as well as excessive snoring.

What affect can allergies have on one’s lifestyle?
“The less you’re able to breathe properly, the more fatigued you are, and the less activities you do,” explains Dr. Gagnon. So it does have an effect on one’s quality of life. It also impacts a person’s sleep quality. In fact, says Dr. Gagnon, 10% of sleep apnea cases are caused by allergy symptoms!

What occurs when one breathes in allergens such as pollen or dust?
Your nose is supposed to act as a filter, with your nasal’s cilia (the microscopic filaments that cover the nose’s surface tissue) moving all toxins and bacteria from your nose, back towards the throat (instead of into your lungs), where it is swallowed and disposed of. But when all that dust and pollen is inhaled, nasal secretions grow thicker, and the cilia work slower and less efficiently. 

What is the solution?
Much like good body and oral hygiene, nasal hygiene is also key to staying healthy… and taking control of your allergies. The new hydraSense Allergy hydrates and cleanses the nasal cavities, dilutes secretions and pushes mucus out, allowing for fluid ciliary movements and for the cilia to do their job properly. This also makes you less reliant on antihistamines, which usually tend to control symptoms, not relieve them. Plus, since it is made with natural seawater (i.e. not with chemicals or preservatives), it’s as close to your natural body as any nasal spray can get!

What else can a person do to gain control of their allergy symptoms?
Dr. Gagnon recommends an air purifier for your home to ensure your indoor air stays clean. Also, while you may be tempted to hang your clothes out to dry in the warmer weather, he suggests you not do so. “Pollen will stick to your clothes,” he warns, which can set off your symptoms.