Typically, a seasonal allergy is a condition that develops when your immune system overreacts or becomes sensitized to some elements in your environment. While these triggers cause discomfort to allergy sufferers, they are not harmful to other people. In most cases, allergies emerge during childhood, but they can also develop at any age.
In addition, if you have people suffering from this condition in your family, you risk developing allergies, as it is hereditary.
Nevertheless, spring and fall are the two seasons that allergies strike, as most allergens like trees, grasses, and ragweed start to bloom. Common allergy symptoms include a runny nose, sneezing, and congestion.
Here are some tips to help you if you suffer from seasonal allergies.
1. Take Extra Precautions When Allergen Counts Are High
During the spring season, pollen counts are usually high in the air. For this reason, be sure to look for effective measures to reduce the exposure. Some of the steps that can help you reduce allergy triggers include the following:
•Check the pollen predictions to know the current levels. You can get this from the Internet, local newspapers, and news programs on TV.
•When high pollen levels are predicted, be sure to take allergy medications before it strikes you.
•Refrain from outdoor activities, especially when allergen counts are high.
•Ensure that all windows and doors are closed at all times.
•Avoid hanging your laundry outside, as pollen may stick to them
•If you have to go out, be sure to mask up.
•Be sure to shower after your outdoor chores to rinse pollen off your body.
2. Keep Your Indoor Air Clean
While it might not be possible to eliminate all allergens from your indoor air, you can help reduce them by using a purifier and regularly cleaning the floors in your home with a vacuum cleaner.
3. Call for HVAC System Inspection
An updated HVAC unit will help you reduce air contaminants in your house, thus fewer allergy triggers. Therefore, it is essential to hire an HVAC technician to help you inspect your air conditioner unit and give appropriate recommendations.
Look for a reputable HVAC or duct cleaning service provider. For example, if you live in Canada, you can research reputable Toronto duct cleaning services to help you reduce the allergy triggers in your home.
4. Try Over-The-Counter Medications
One of the most common non-prescription medications that can help you reduce allergy symptoms is an oral decongestant. This medication helps ease the discomfort that comes with nasal stuffiness.
Oral antihistamines also help relieve a runny or stuffy nose, itching, sneezing, and watery eyes. However, you should consult your health provider before purchasing some of these medications.
5. Rinse Your Sinuses
Another helpful tip to help you reduce seasonal allergy discomfort is rinsing your sinuses using a saline solution. This is a quick, effective, and inexpensive method to ease nasal congestion. It helps you flush out allergens and mucus from your nose.
You can either decide to purchase a ready-made saline solution or kits to mix with water. Homemade saline solution should be prepared using bottled water. That way, you will be reducing infection risks. Also, ensure that you rinse your irrigation device with clean water and antibacterial soap after use.
6. Consider Alternative Remedies
Several natural ways can help fight seasonal allergy symptoms. However, it is essential to talk to your health provider before trying these treatments. One of these natural remedies includes consuming local honey, which helps lower your body’s reaction to pollen.
7. Visit a Doctor When Home Medications Aren’t Enough
Typically, most people can ease allergy symptoms by simply taking non-prescription remedies and avoiding allergens. However, some seasonal allergies can be bothersome. In such cases, visit your doctor to help you find out the allergens triggering your symptoms. Your doctor may recommend various tests, including blood and skin tests. Your treatment will depend on test results, which may include regular injections.
Conclusion
While there are available allergy treatment options, you can develop respiratory issues or asthma if you fail to take early measures. Be sure to visit an allergist or doctor to help you create a treatment plan for your allergy symptoms.
