Seasonal Allergy Tips: Managing Symptoms & Prevention Strategies
Seasonal allergies can be difficult to manage, but with the right communication, it can be more manageable and the condition can be better understood.What is a Seasonal Allergy?
Seasonal allergies are hypersensitivity reactions to allergens that occur only during certain seasons. The most common allergens for triggering seasonal allergies are various types of pollens from grasses, trees and weeds. In addition to those basic allergens, there can be some special triggers that are particular for certain parts of a particular country.Common Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies
Symptoms of seasonal allergies can affect the nose, throat, and lungs, even the eyes. Common symptoms of seasonal allergy include: runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, coughing, itchy eyes, fatigue, throat irritation, sleep disturbance and difficulty breathing. If you suspect you have an allergy, schedule an appointment with your doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment.Seasonal Allergy Treatment and Management
Allergy medication is the main method to relieve symptoms of a seasonal allergy. These medications primarily are designed to block the histamine response. Also, it is important to determine what pollen levels trigger your allergic response so you can avoid those specific allergens. To lessen home allergens, use a vacuum cleaner with HEPA filters to trap allergens in your home.
In addition to medications and avoiding specific allergens, many people find that lifestyle measures can offer some relief. Keeping doors and windows shut to keep pollen out of the home, and control the humidity level inside homes can offer some relief. Also, taking steps to make homes more allergen-resistant also be helpful. These steps could include replacing carpet with wood or vinyl flooring, using dust mite-proof covers on bedclothes, and eliminating the use of down bedding.
Seasonal Allergy Tips For Managing Symptoms
Here are 10 tips for managing seasonal allergy symptoms:1. Wear Proper Clothing
When participating in outdoor activities, make sure to wear protective clothing with long sleeves and long pants to minimize the irritants on the skin.2. Wash Hands Often
After spending time outdoors, it can be helpful to wash your hands and face to minimize the impact of allergens.3. Use Pollen Check Apps
To help stay informed about local pollen levels, use a pollen check app that will report the pollen count in your area or specific location.4. Keep Pets Inside
Keeping pets inside can help minimize exposure to pollens, weeds and other pollutants outside.5. Keep Windows Closed
To reduce exposure to seasonal allergens, it is best to keep windows and doors closed when pollen levels are high.6. Keep Surfaces Clean
To reduce exposure to allergens in the environment, it is a good idea to regularly clean surfaces of all rooms and items in the home.7. Use Air Filters
To keep the indoor air clean and free from allergens, it is a good idea to use air filters which are designed to remove airborne allergens.8. Exercise Indoors
If pollen levels are high in your area, choose to exercise indoors rather than outdoors. Varies forms of indoor exercises can help you stay fit without the irritation of outdoor allergens.9. Use a Nasal Saline Rinse
To soothe a stuffy nose caused by an allergic reaction, a nasal saline rinse can be beneficial. Saline solution helps wash away pollutants and irritants from the nasal passages.10. Avoid Certain Food
Certain foods can cause your body to produce more histamine. To help control allergy symptoms, it is best to avoid foods high in histamine, such as alcohol, aged cheese, cured meats, fish and yogurt.Combining Medications with Lifestyle Measures
Experimental studies have shown that combining regular anti-inflammatory drug medications with lifestyle modifications can have additive beneficial effects for reducing the symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis. Many people find that their symptoms can be controlled with oral antihistamines or nasal steroids. If oral medications are not suitable, there are other treatments, including eye drops and tablets, which can be prescribed as an alternative.Conclusion
Seasonal allergies can be frustrating and difficult to manage. Taking steps to avoid allergens, using the appropriate medication, and taking steps towards a lifestyle modification can offer some relief from season allergy symptoms. Combine medication with common-sense measures to minimize the impact of allergens to give you a better chance of keeping seasonal allergies under better control.
If you think you have an allergy, make sure to schedule an appointment with your doctor because proper diagnosis and treatment are essential steps to managing seasonal allergies. Book an Appointment with us 👇