If you spent the weekend hanging on to a hankie you’re not alone. There are as many as 50 million people in the US that battle allergies. It can be a small bother or an immense aggravation depending on the severity. Fortunately, there are ways to avoid some of the irritants out there. First, of all you can prepare yourself by checking your local pollen count. Pollen.com has a local count so you can view local and national levels.
Unlike avoidance of pet dander and dust mites, it is more difficult to avoid exposure to pollens, since it is present in the outdoor air. Here are some tips from About.Com to minimize pollen exposure:
– Keep windows closed prevent pollens from drifting into your home
– Minimize early morning activity when pollen is usually emitted-between 5-10 a.m.
– Keep your car windows closed when traveling.
– Stay indoors when the pollen count is reported to be high, and on windy day when pollen may be present in higher amounts in the air
– Take a vacation during the height of the pollen season to a more pollen-free area, such as the beach or sea.
– Avoid mowing the lawn and freshly cut grass
– Machine dry bedding and clothing. Pollen may collect in laundry if it is hung outside to dry
Finally, if you can’t seem to escape them not matter how hard you try, there are several options of OTC and prescription drugs that can help. Take some time to do your research so you get paired up with the proper medicine. Don’t let all the options blow you away. 😉 -pm