Springtime brings relief from cold weather, but it can wreak havoc on those with allergies. Though the colorful blossoms of trees are happy indicators of the coming summer months to some, for others they mark the onset of the increasing discomfort from seasonal allergies. We have put together a very basic list of suggestions that may help alleviate your suffering during the season.
Before the pollen season reaches severe highs, do your best to modify your environment in a way that will benefit you during the worst days. If possible, try to eliminate tall grass and other lush vegetation from your immediate surroundings; mow the lawn, have larger bushes and trees trimmed. Plan for an early spring cleaning, and give your entire home a good dusting, vacuuming, and mopping.
Consult the pollen calendar. Make sure you stay aware of the times and days that will provide the most severe reactions, and prepare yourself for those times. On days with high pollen counts, make sure you keep your windows and doors shut, using air conditioning units instead, when necessary. Likewise, when planning outdoor activities, consult your pollen calendar and choose to go out on days when the pollen count will be lower.
When you do spend some time out in the open, make sure you minimize the amount of allergens you carry into your home. Make a habit of leaving your shoes by the door, so you do not track the pollen around the house. Keep in mind that the pollen may stick to your skin and clothes, so showering and changing your clothes may ease your symptoms. Make sure you rinse your hair before turning in for the night, so pollen does not build up in your pillow. Wash your clothes and bed sheets often during the allergy season, and ensure that the house is frequently vacuumed, dusted and mopped. A small perk of living with allergies, is that you should not be the one doing this kind of cleaning.
While different things work for different people, one thing remains constant over the range of the various kinds of allergies: the symptoms can be treated far more simply and efficiently, when the allergy triggers are known.
