How to Keep Your Allergies Under Control This Season

Keeping allergies under control can be a real challenge, especially in Spring!

It probably feels like you’re allergic to everything. Walking around sniffling, sneezing, and rubbing your eyes due to allergies is frustrating. And that’s why it’s time to find a way around it. Try to be proactive and make your environment as suitable for you as possible.

Try these tips to help you make it through the allergy season:

1. Dress for the season. Usually, the “allergy season” comes plenty of dust and pollen floating around in the air. If you dress for the season, you can limit exposure to allergens.
   

• Take a hooded jacket with you when going out. If you’re attending an outdoor event, the hood can limit your exposure to dust and pollen in the air.
  
• You’ve probably overlooked the fact that allergens make it to the surface of your skin. And it’s pretty easy for them to get into your air passages. Keep your skin covered when allergens are in the air.
  

2. Take some allergy medication. If you feel like you’re going to be a victim of allergens, prepare yourself! Take your allergy medications before leaving home. That way, your defenses are ready to combat the dusty enemies!
   

• There are several over-the-counter options available. Choose one that has the least side effects.
  
• Choose allergy medication that combats the greatest number of allergens. This is a good strategy since you never know what you may run into.
  
• Some allergy medications can make you drowsy. If your aim is to watch a concert in the park, avoid these medications. You may end up missing half the show! More importantly, don’t drive.
  
• Slow-release medications are great if you plan to spend extensive time in the presence of allergens. However, if you need immediate relief, these are not the way to go.
  

3. Dehumidify your surroundings. Allergens thrive when the surroundings are humid, so use a dehumidifier. You may not be able to get rid of every trace of allergens, but you’ll get much of it out.
   

• Check your local home goods store or Amazon for a suitable dehumidifier. Be sure to note the size of your room so you’ll have it handy when shopping. Also note the type of furniture in your surroundings.
  
  

4. Change your sleeping habits. Consider these sleeping routines that are ideal for combating allergens:
   

• Changing pillows every 3-6 months limits your exposure to house dust mites. These are known to trigger allergic reactions.
  
• Keep your pillow cases clean. Change regularly. Using the same pillowcases for more than 3 days increases your exposure to dust.
  
• It’s a good idea to allow natural air into the room, but not during the nighttime. While your body is asleep you’re unable to limit exposure to allergens from outside. Keep the windows closed or avoid sleeping directly below them.

5. Use a neti pot. A neti pot is a container that’s designed to rinse mucus from your nose. You can use a neti pot to treat the symptoms of nasal allergies, colds or sinus problems.To use a neti pot, tilt your head sideways over the sink and put the neti pot’s spout in your upper nostril. Breath through your open mouth, gently pouring the saltwater solution into your upper nostril so that the solution drains through the other nostril. Repeat on the other side. 

Allergy and Your Skin

Allergies can manifest on the skin too. Skin conditions such as eczema and hives can be linked to seasonal allergies. Dark circles around the eyes and puffiness are also common to allergy sufferers. 

Here are some of the ways to handle your skin allergies:

• Showering and washing your hair and face before going to bed to remove any outdoor allergens that are collected during the day.

• Change and wash beddings and pillowcases with fragrance-free and allergen-free detergent 

• Keep windows closed and use air conditioning to keep outdoor pollens from getting inside the house

• Remove shoes at the door before entering the house.

• Use hypoallergenic skin care products 

• Avoid food that can trigger your skin allergies.

You may not be able to hide from every single allergen. But you can certainly limit your exposure to them. By doing these habits, you can expect to feel less frustrated by allergens.

Despite the allergens around you, it’s possible to win the battle with allergies. With some proactive planning and preparation, you can limit the impact of the seasonal elements and enjoy more allergy-free days!

Take time to take extra care of your skin. If you have sensitive skin or suffer from acne, consult a professional before using a product. Book an appointment with me.