Sneezing, congestion, runny nose, and other allergy symptoms can be controlled with medication and by avoiding things that cause your allergic reactions. Your primary care doctor at ARcare will set up a simple allergy control plan that is best for you. Here are some ways you can avoid seasonal allergy symptoms this spring.
Take your prescribed allergy medicines.
You mustn’t skip your allergy medications. If you are at risk for anaphylaxis, keep your epinephrine injectors with you in case of a severe allergic reaction.
Keep the windows closed.
Although it may be nice outside, when you open your windows you let a lot of pollen into your home. Instead of opening windows for airflow, use an air conditioner with a filter, to block most of the pollen that may enter.
Avoid rubbing your eyes after being outdoors.
Wash your eyes with artificial tear drops for temporary relief from eyes itching due to allergy.
Drive with car windows up.
Driving with your windows up on a sunny day might not be ideal, but if you suffer from spring allergies it is important to close your car windows. Set your car’s air conditioning system to recycle interior air, to provide airflow and help prevent pollen from being pulled into your car.
Stay indoors during high-pollen periods.
Watch your local weather reports for pollen counts. Normally, counts are lower just after sunrise and after a rainfall. Levels increase through the morning and are usually highest during midday and afternoon hours, and then decrease around sunset.
Shower at night.
When you shower at night, you wash off any excess pollen that may be stuck to you. This way, you can help prevent bringing pollen into your bed with you.
Avoid mowing and gardening tasks.
Have someone mow your yard for you if it is possible. Stay indoors while neighbors are mowing their yards as well. If you must mow the grass yourself, use antihistamines before mowing, and wear a dust/pollen mask while mowing.
Stay indoors on windy or rainy days.
Mold spores that easily travel on winds, and warm damp spring and summer weather promotes the development of mold spores. So if you can, try to stay in during spring rains and winds.
Keep interior surface clean.
Keep furniture and countertops wiped clean, to remove pollen that enters through the doors or windows. Use mold elimination products from your local home supply store to ensure complete cleanliness.
Avoid prolonged use of decongestant sprays.
Do not use nasal decongestant sprays for more than several days. Excessive use of decongestants can cause congestion. Ask your local doctor for appropriate allergy remedies, to ensure you are using them correctly.
For more information about allergies and how to treat them, or to make an appointment to see a doctor at your nearest ARcare location, contact us at (866)-550-4719 to speak to one of our friendly and helpful staff members.