So, last week, first hazard discussed, that “evil doer,” poison ivy.

What might be the next hazard? 

Hint. Spring. Outside. Blooming. Sprouting. Dirt in the air. Pollen. Mold.

Allergies!

And with them come itchy, watery eyes, sneezing, head fog, sleepiness, slight head ache, maybe even a few body aches.

Folks suffer different signs of “Spring” working in their bodies, but most agree on the sinus symptoms. Just lately, I was attacked by the environment! I didn’t feel well, but to describe it would be difficult. “Icky” says it best. Do you identify? Do you have itchy eyes? How about “brain fog”? 

I reasoned, “maybe it would help to climb on the inversion table? Get the circulation going?” I hung like a bat for about five minutes. 

Do you remember as a kid, hanging by your knees on the Jungle Gym and feeling a bit dizzy as the blood rushed to your head?

That’s how it felt. Fat head. I better try something else. But what? I know. I should take a nap. Naps can cure a lot of ailments. But most of us cannot just nap any old time we want. The duties of life are calling.

Fred asked, “Have you taken a sinus pill?” Fred remembers. I forget. “Follow me” he said, as I followed him to his magic bathroom drawer where all his eye drops, nose spray, Dramamine, allergy relievers, and ointments are stored (in a zip-lock bag). 

“You have the sinus and head stuff,” said the wise old owl. Not the flu, not COVID-19. Just the same old enemy, tormenting us all at this time of year.

Take this test. Imagine your neck and head removed from your discomfort. How do you feel apart from your head? From the neck down, the rest of you isn’t adding to your discomfort. See? When the head gets fuzzy and thick, the brains turn off. Sleepiness and tiredness are coming from behind the eyes.

I relented to Fred’s suggestion, swallowing a sinus relief pill. What could it hurt?  In about an hour, I felt well. I perked up.

However, it is always a good idea to go to your FD (favorite doc) if you feel lousy for long. Don’t take my advice as the cure. 

I know you identify. Hang in there. 

Judi Tabler lives in Pawnee County and is a guest columnist for the Great Bend Tribune. She can be reached at juditabler@gmail.com.