Nip Seasonal Allergies in the Bud

Springtime allergies are an annual nuisance for many people. As plants begin to bloom and people start to cut their grass more frequently, allergy sufferers nationwide start sniffling and sneezing.  

If this sounds familiar, you may have seasonal allergies, which are symptoms that occur at specific times of the year, typically when allergens are released into the air. The most common spring allergy trigger is tree pollen, which peaks from March to May. What’s more, mold growth blooms both indoors and outdoors, making it almost impossible to escape allergy triggers.

According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, 1 in 4 adults experience seasonal allergies from pollen, trees, grass, and weeds. 

Similar to other types of allergies, seasonal allergies develop when your body’s immune system detects and then overreacts to a foreign substance it thinks is harmful. For some, allergy symptoms may consist of sneezing a couple of times a year. But for others, seasonal allergies can cause congestion, a runny, itchy or stuffy nose, watery eyes, headaches and more for weeks or months at a time. To reduce your allergies, consider the following strategies:

• Wash your bedding every week in hot water to help keep pollen under control.
• Take a shower after spending time outdoors, as pollen can stick to your hair, skin and clothing.
• Limit the number of throw rugs to reduce dust and mold. Also, opt for washable rugs.
• Clean your floors often with a vacuum that has a HEPA filter.
• Change your air conditioner and heating HEPA filters often.

Treatment for most allergies is available both over the counter and by prescription. If your allergy symptoms are severe or chronic, you may need a series of allergy shots. Contact your doctor or ask for a referral to an allergist to determine which seasonal allergy treatment option is best for you.

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