Even though allergy season rears its ugly head every year, it can feel like it sneaks up on us. Suddenly bringing on symptoms such as nasal congestion, itchy, watery eyes, sneezing, and a runny nose, allergies can profoundly impact your energy level and daily routine.
This year, be prepared to meet allergy season head-on rather than letting it bring you down. Here are a few simple things you can do before allergy season to give you a leg up on managing your allergy symptoms.
Know Your Body
Seasonal allergies affect everyone very differently. Your body’s reaction to allergens in the environment is unique, so get to know your specific triggers. An allergist can perform a simple skin prick test to determine which allergens cause a reaction for you. Identify the types of pollen you are allergic to and be more prepared for the season that most affects you.
Stock the Medicine Cabinet
Don’t get caught empty-handed when it comes to allergy relief. Before the season, check your medicine cabinet for allergy medications that you have used in the past. Look for expiration dates and throw away any expired medications. Then, stock up on medications and eye drops that are effective for your allergy symptoms.
Watch the Weather
Knowledge is power, and keeping an eye on local pollen counts can help immensely. Monitor the reports for which days will have higher pollen levels to help you prepare. Additionally, the weather reports can inform you when it will be windy and dry, which can increase pollen counts.
Reduce Your Exposure
Once you know your specific allergy triggers and have a plan for how to fight them, there are a few things you can do to reduce your exposure to allergens.
- Keep doors and windows in your home closed when pollen counts are high.
- Dust and vacuum your home as often as possible during the allergy season.
- Bathe after being outside to avoid bringing the allergens into bed with you.
- Wash your sheets weekly.
- Use an air purifier in your home and office and change or clean the filter monthly.
- Keep shoes, hats, and jackets just outside the door or in one area of the home to avoid allergens spreading throughout the house.
Give Your Body a Boost
Like many health conditions, your diet and lifestyle can help keep you comfortable during allergy season.
- Include plenty of fruits and vegetables in your diet as they contain antioxidants and natural chemicals that can reduce inflammatory responses that often come with allergies.
- Drink green tea to consume the natural antihistamines and soothe your scratchy throat while loosening uncomfortable mucus at the same time.
- Exercise to help relieve stress early in the morning when pollen counts are low.
- Use warm and cool compresses to alleviate sinus pressure.
Follow these few steps to prepare for allergy season and keep your body feeling its best. Of course, staying in touch with your healthcare professional is always the best way to keep on top of your health. But you can’t plan for every bump and bruise that life throws your way – that’s why Immediate Care is here for you.
Our urgent care centers combine the convenience of a walk-in medical office with delivering compassionate, quality medical care. Located in Brick, East Windsor, Edison, Hazlet, Marlboro, Red Bank, and Toms River, Immediate Care is open seven days a week, including most holidays.
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