For most people, springtime means warmer weather and blooming flowers. It truly is a beautiful time of the year, which is why many look forward to it. Unfortunately, it’s not the case for everyone. Those who suffer from seasonal allergies will think otherwise.
Dealing with common allergy symptoms like frequent sneezing, runny nose, itchy and watery eyes, irritated throat, nasal congestion, and headaches can all quickly make you miserable. Before you feel helpless, here are simple strategies to get ahead of your seasonal allergy symptoms before spring allergy season comes in full force:
Start your allergy meds early
You can start your allergy meds as early as two to four weeks before allergy season starts to get ahead of your symptoms. This will boost your immune response so your body reacts better to your allergens. Don’t forget to take your allergy meds on days when pollen counts are especially high.
Know your triggers and avoid them
Allergens vary from one person to another. Knowing what triggers your allergies will help you determine a better allergy management plan. Get tested by a board-certified allergist.
Track pollen and allergen levels
Make it a habit to monitor pollen and allergen levels in your area. This will allow you to anticipate how your allergies will act so you can take a proactive approach to keep symptoms at bay. Websites like pollen.com, Asthma and Allergy Forecast, and the Weather Channel can help you monitor pollen and allergen levels in your local area.
Keep doors and windows closed
Pollen, mold spores, and other airborne irritants can travel for miles via the air. Although it is tempting to let the air fresh in, it would be best to keep your doors and windows closed, especially during windy and high allergen count days.
Over-the-counter remedies come in handy
Several over-the-counter remedies can help alleviate allergy symptoms. Consider decongestants, antihistamines, and nasal sprays to reduce inflammation, clear blocked nasal passages, and ease your suffering during peak allergy seasons.
Sinus rinses go a long way
Rinsing your sinuses with a saline solution is an effective way to relieve nasal congestion. This breaks down mucus buildup, clears sinuses, and flushes out allergens from your nose.
Leave shoes at the door, change your clothes, and get in the shower
On high-allergen days, staying indoors is ideal—but not always possible. Whether heading to work, school, or running errands, you can still minimize allergen exposure at home.
When returning indoors, leave your shoes outside, change out of your outdoor clothes immediately, toss them in the laundry, and take a shower to rinse off any lingering allergens before putting on fresh clothes.
Don’t hang clothes outside to dry
While the sunshine and warm weather might be tempting, don’t hang clothes outside to dry. Pollen and other airborne allergens can stick to the fabric and exacerbate your allergy symptoms. Hang clothes to dry inside or use a clothes dryer.
Keep a clean environment
Keep your home clean. Regularly vacuum and dust around your home. Change and wash your bedding regularly as well. If you have pets, regularly groom them to reduce pet dander, and if you let them outside, clean them up before letting them back in to remove any allergens they might have picked up outside.
HEPA filters are the smarter choice
Invest in HEPA filters and use them in your home’s HVAC system, air purifier, and vacuum cleaner. They can remove even small allergen particles from circulating in your indoor space. Additionally, clean and change them as recommended to make sure your appliances run optimally.
Keep yourself hydrated
Proper hydration is a crucial part of one’s overall health and well-being. It’s important to keep yourself well-hydrated, especially during peak allergy seasons. Optimal hydration levels will help keep mucus thin and will promote the proper functioning of mucus membranes. This will keep sinus linings moist and moisturized, preventing nasal blockage.
Know when to consult an allergist
Allergies can have negative impacts on one’s quality of life. If your allergies are starting to get worse or your allergy medication stopped working, do not hesitate to consult with your doctor – especially if your symptoms have started impacting your mental health.
At Del Rey MD, we are deeply committed to helping our patients manage their allergies so they can breathe better and enjoy the beautiful spring season. Book a consultation with our team today and learn how you can get ahead of your allergy symptoms.