Spring is in the air and with it the pollen and other offending allergy inducing particles. For severe allergy sufferers, spring could be hell on earth. While friends and family are enjoying the moderate temperatures, outdoor activities, or even the beauty of nature’s rebirth, you are hiding indoors in an attempt to avoid the symptoms.
1. Schedule an Appointment with Your ENT Doctor. With the options in prescribed medications, finding the one best for you can be determined by trial and error. There are antihistamines, some with non-drowsy side effects, or there are nasal sprays, a steroid medication that better manages nasal allergies. Depending on the severity of your allergies and what your basic symptoms are, your doctor can get you on the right track to finding the most optimal prescription right for you.
2. Keep Doors & Windows Closed to Avoid Pollen. There are many people who like to take advantage of the comfortable temperatures outside to keep their home in ideal conditions. Allergy sufferers should keep the windows and doors closed during the heavy pollen weeks, or at the very least from early to mid morning hours where the pollen count is high. If your home inside is unfavorable with warm or stuffy air, turn the air conditioner on. Be sure to check on the air filters every three months at a minimum. For more optimal results, check on them once a month, and if needed clean or replace.
3. Avoid Pollen & Keep Windows Shut When Riding in Car. Again, avoid temptation and keep windows and sunroofs closed. If the vehicle you are in is equipped with a re-circulate intercompartment air adjustment feature, utilize it. It will help keep the outdoor air from creeping in.
4. Worst Time Spent Outdoors for Allergy Sufferers. As previously mentioned, the pollen count is at its peak during early to mid morning hours. For those that can’t resist the urge to participate in outdoor activities, avoid the morning.
5. Doing Yard Work with Allergies. Most of us need to do our own yard work. If you are one of the many, be sure to take your antihistamines 2 hours before heading out if it is recommended to take 1 or 2 doses a day. For the extreme allergy sufferer, invest in work goggles and maybe even a dust mask to reduce the assault. Once finished, immediately remove clothing and shower the contributing allergy elements away.
6. Wash Your Nose to Minimize Allergies. As odd as that may seem, removing the pollens and other components causing allergies from your nasal passages can help tremendously. Many patients who follow this step notice a dramatic difference in congestion and drainage symptoms. Nose saline solutions can rinse out the nasal passages. Do this say two or three times a day, or as the label instructs.
Our professionals at ENT Specialists are experts in aiding patients with allergies. With our talents, knowledge, experience and skills, we can find the right solutions to ease the burdens of allergy season for you and your loved ones. Call us today to schedule your appointment!
