Your allergy season survival guide
Allergies aren’t just a spring and summer problem. As autumn marches on, use these tips to help you minimize sneezing fits, itchy eyes, and runny noses — indoors and out.
If you’re one of the more than 19 million American adults who deal with seasonal allergies (aka hay fever), you know how frustrating the symptoms can be:
- Congestion
- Coughing
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Runny nose
- Sneezing
Allergies happen when your immune system overreacts to pollen — a powdery substance released into the air by trees, flowers, and grasses. Breathing it in can trigger those uncomfortable symptoms.
Depending on where you live, allergy season can stretch across much of the year.
The good news: There are plenty of ways to ease your symptoms and feel better. Here are tips to help you prepare as pollen counts climb.
12 tips to gear up for allergy season
Keep windows closed during high pollen days. While the fresh air may be tempting, it’s best to keep windows shut when pollen counts are high.
Wash inside your nose with a saline spray or a neti pot. This simple practice helps clear out allergens trapped in your nasal passages.
Clean your air filters (or invest in an air purifier if you don’t have one). Regularly changing your HVAC filters can significantly reduce dust and pollen in your home.
Wash bedding weekly in hot water. Pollen, dust, and other allergens can settle on your bed. Hot water helps kill any lingering dust mites.
Vacuum regularly. Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to trap dust, pet dander, and pollen. Don’t forget to clean curtains and rugs, which can hold on to allergens.
Keep humidity in check. Dust mites and mold thrive in high humidity. Use a dehumidifier to keep indoor levels between 30 and 50 percent.
Check daily pollen counts. Plenty of apps and weather websites provide pollen forecasts to help you plan outdoor activities wisely.
Dr. Ramos says: Many allergy medications take a few weeks to kick in. Talk to your doctor about when you should start taking yours.
Choose the right times of day for outdoor activities. Pollen counts tend to be lower in the late afternoon or after a good rain, so plan accordingly.
Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from pollen. Sunglasses can act as a barrier, preventing pollen from irritating your eyes.
Put your clothes in the laundry when you get home and change into something clean. Pollen can cling to fabric, so avoid lounging around in clothes worn outdoors.
Take a shower and wash your hair after being outside. This will remove any pollen stuck to your skin or hair, preventing it from spreading to your pillow or couch.
Wipe down pets’ fur with a damp cloth after they go outside. Pets can bring pollen indoors. Giving them a quick wipe can reduce the allergens they track in.
