Tips for Allergy Sufferers Before the Pollen Invasion

Springtime is in the air, and the onslaught of pollen comes with it. The yellow ting will quickly be covering outdoor surfaces, including patio pavers, cars, pavement, outdoor furniture, and even the hairs inside your nose. This time of year can be a miserable experience for people with allergies. Here are a few tips for allergy sufferers.

What are allergies?

Allergies result from your immune system overreacting to a normally harmless substance. This substance, called an allergen, can be pollen, pet dander, or food. When you come in contact with this allergen, your body produces histamine. Histamine causes the symptoms of allergies, such as a runny nose, itchy eyes, and sneezing.

Does everyone suffer from allergies?

No, not everyone suffers from allergies. Some people are allergic to specific things, like pollen or pet dander, while others are allergic to anything that triggers their immune system.

Here are some tips to help you prepare for and manage your allergies during the pollen season:

Start taking allergy medication before symptoms start.

This will help you to manage your symptoms better. Allergy symptoms often begin before the pollen is visible on outdoor surfaces. Staying ahead of the pollen is key. So, start your allergy medicines now. Some allergy medicines on the market include;

• Allegra
• Zyrtec
• Claritin

Use a Netti pot twice a day.

This will help to clear your sinuses and reduce the amount of pollen that you breathe in. Pollen will collect in your sinuses and cause more severe symptoms if not cleared regularly. If you don’t like using a Netti pot, you can use a saline or an allergen spray.

Nasal Steroids

If your allergies are bad, your doctor may prescribe a nasal steroid. This will help to reduce the inflammation in your nose and sinuses caused by the pollen.

Keep your windows and doors closed as much as possible.

Pollen can easily enter your home through open windows and doors, so try to keep them closed as much as you can. Pollen will come in through your window screens as well.

Avoid spending time outdoors when the pollen count is high.

The pollen count is usually highest in the morning and early evening. Try to avoid being outdoors during these times if you can. If you have to be outdoors, try to cover your nose and mouth with a scarf to keep the pollen from entering your lungs.

Stay hydrated.

Dehydration can worsen allergy symptoms. Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, to help keep your body hydrated.

Wearing sunglasses can help to keep pollen out of your eyes.

Pollen can easily get into your eyes and irritate. Protect your eyes by wearing sunglasses when you are outdoors.

Bathe your dogs often

Pollen will attach quickly to your pet’s hair. Bathing your dog often will help reduce the amount of pollen brought into your home.

Allergy season is about to be in full swing, and for people with allergies, that means dealing with a lot of congestion, sneezing, and watery eyes. These are just a few tips to help you manage your allergies during the pollen season. For more tips, or if you have any questions, speak to your doctor.