April showers bring May flowers and the start of seasonal allergy season, unfortunately, too. Seasonal allergies — also called hay fever and allergic rhinitis — can make you miserable. They usually include a combination of sneezing, congestion, a runny nose, and other bothersome symptoms. But before you settle for plastic flowers and artificial turf, try these simple strategies to keep your seasonal allergies under control.
Take extra steps when the pollen count is high. Seasonal allergy signs and symptoms can flare up when there’s a lot of pollen in the air. Check your local TV or radio station, your local newspaper, or the Internet for pollen forecasts and current pollen levels. If high pollen counts are forecasted, start taking allergy medications (as prescribed by your doctor) before your symptoms start. Close doors and windows at night or any other time when pollen counts are high. Avoid outdoor activity in the early morning when pollen counts are the highest.
Reduce your exposure. This can be tough depending on your day-to-day lifestyle but is very effective. Stay indoors on dry, windy days. The best time to go outside is after a good rain, which helps clear pollen from the air. Delegate lawn mowing, weed pulling, and other gardening chores that stir up allergens. Remove clothes you’ve worn outside and shower to rinse pollen from your skin and hair.
Keep the air in your home clean. There’s no miracle product that can eliminate all allergens from the air in your home, but these suggestions may help. Use the air conditioning in your house and car instead of opening your windows. If you have forced-air heating or air conditioning in your house, use high-efficiency filters and follow regular maintenance schedules. Make sure to keep indoor air dry with a dehumidifier.
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