Tricks for Beating Spring Allergies
This information was reviewed and approved by Ann Mullen, AE-C, CNS, MSN, RN (2/28/2019).
Spring allergies can cause a runny nose, watery and itchy eyes, sneezing and sore throats. Prevent these symptoms by taking allergy medicine before symptoms start, and by using these tips to keep spring allergy symptoms under control.
Cool Wisely
Use an air conditioner instead of a window or attic fan to cool your house.
Prevent Molds
Avoid humidifiers and swamp coolers, because they can add molds into your home.
Clean Up
When you come in from outside, remove clothing and wash or shower to remove pollen from your skin and hair. Also wash your pets after they’ve been outside to reduce pollen they bring in to the home.
.jpg?lang=en-us&ext=.jpg)
Nasal Wash
Using a saline nasal wash can improve breathing by rinsing pollen, dust and other debris out of your nose and loosening thick mucus.
Block Wind
Use a scarf or mask over your mouth and nose to prevent breathing in pollen and dust on windy days.
Allergy Triggers
Spring pollen allergies are from trees and grasses; weeds bring summer allergies. Molds can be a problem during mid-summer in warmer states and year-round in southern and western states.
Garden Carefully
Avoid breathing in fertilizer and pesticide chemicals. Keep away from piles of moldy leaves and branches. Have someone else mow the lawn. Wear an allergy mask outdoors to reduce exposure to allergens.
Count Pollens
Watch local pollen counts. Stay inside during afternoons and evenings when pollen counts are highest.
Close Windows
Keep home and car windows closed when pollen counts are high and during sleep.
Take Medication
Consistently take doctor-recommended medicines and treatments.