Spring is just around the corner, and with spring comes seasonal allergies! And sunny days, thank goodness.
More than 50 million American experience various types of allergies each year, and they are the 6th leading cause of chronic illness in the U.S.
They can be a nuisance for many, so here are some tips to help you when that pollen starts showing up on your car in the morning.
1. Reduce your exposure to allergy triggers
- Stay indoors on dry, windy days. The best time to spend outside is after rainfall which assists in clearing all those allergens from the air outdoors.
- Ask friends or family to help you with tasks like lawn mowing, weed pulling, and other yard care chores that stir up messes.
- Make sure to remove and wash clothes that have been worn outdoors, and get a shower in to remove pollen from your skin and hair.
2. Take extra steps when pollen count is higher than normal
- Check your local weather stations or apps to check for pollen count before you begin your day.
- If pollen count is high, be proactive by taking allergy medications before your allergies kick in.
- Avoid outdoor activities early in the day when pollen count is at the highest.
3. Keep your indoor air clean
- Use the AC when in your car and house. This utilizes the air filtration in your AC.
- Keep dehumidifier running to keep your indoor air dry.
- Clean floors often with a vacuum cleaner, especially on carpet. Bonus points if your vacuum has a HEPA filter!
4. Over the counter remedies
- Oral antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal sprays can all be helpful tools for dealing with your allergies!
5. Sinus care
- Rinsing your nasal passages with saline solution is a great way to clear out blockages, relieve congestion, and keep your nasal passages clean and allergen free! Neti pots are a popular item for this exact use, but a simple squeeze bottle will also do the job.
We hope these tips help you moving forward as the weather brightens and our friends the bees start doing their job yet again.