Most of us are looking forward to spring because it means no more dressing up as a polar bear under layers and layers of clothes. But others dread this miserable time of year that only means one thing for them: allergy season.
This allergy season is predicted to be the worst pollen season we’ve witnessed in years. Thankfully, allergy sufferers have some things they can do to relieve the annoying symptoms and feel better fast.
We’ve had a relatively mild winter, and spring seems to take an early start, so people who know that allergies wait around the corner for them might pay a bigger price.
According to Dr. Merritt Fajt, an allergist-immunologist at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, each allergy season was predicted to be worse than the last. But due to the increase in pollen during this spring season – a month sooner than usual – this year might top the others.
It’s also worrying that more people in the U.S. who used to have seasonable allergies now seem to have year-round allergy symptoms. But what can allergy sufferers do to relieve their discomfort?
For starters, don’t wait to take medication after you’ve begun experiencing symptoms. Allergy experts recommend that medication should be taken before any symptoms start manifesting when the pollen count is high. If you start seeing symptoms, don’t skip the allergy testing.
Avoid bringing pollen into the house during allergy season by using the air conditioner to cool the rooms rather than keeping your windows open. Same goes for car rides; don’t drive with the windows down if you want to keep yourself away from pollen.
For those who have grass allergies, experts recommend to let someone else mow the lawn (you’re welcome for the excuse!). Meanwhile, keep an eye on your neighbors’ grass cutting habits, and try to stay inside as they trim their front lawn.
One of the best ways to survive allergy season without bloodshot eyes and red nose is to allergy proof the day. Pop an antihistamine before you head out the door, and also make sure you don’t rub your eyes after coming back home – your fingers are covered in pollen and some other particles you don’t want in your sensitive eyes.
Also, keep your sheets rid of pollen and your washing machines clean of allergens like fungi and E. coli. Put a mask on and dust regularly, but not with a feather duster, which will mostly just stir the dust up instead of removing it.
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