7 Tips for Dealing with Spring Allergies

No sooner did it warm up outside than the spring allergies hit. All of a sudden my eyes are itchy and watery, my nose is running like crazy and between me, my husband and the kids, we’re keeping Kleenex in business.

If you’re already feeling the spring allergies, brace yourself. According to Bela B. Faltay, MD, Chief of Service, Allergy, Akron General Health System, it’s not just the pollen that will give you problems this spring. They’re seeing more mold-related allergy symptoms this spring because of the volume of snow that has made the ground very moist. Plus, a later onset of warm weather causes more trees to pollinate at the same time rather than gradually. Guess I’ll be getting used to some April showers…from my nose.

And moving on from that terrible joke, I’ll share Dr. Faltay’s tips to find relief this allergy season.

7 Tips for Dealing with Spring Allergies

Be prepared. Start over-the-counter and prescription preventive allergy medicines early to reduce or even prevent allergy symptoms.

Break out your shades. Wear sunglasses when outdoors to minimize the amount of pollen getting in your eyes.

Turn on the air. Close your windows and turn on the air conditioner (or heater, depending on weather conditions) at home and in the car.

Know the pollen count. Limit time outdoors on high pollen days.

Scrub up. Wash your hair after spending time outdoors.

Get electric. Use your clothes dryer; don’t hang clothes outdoors to dry.

See the doc. Dr. Faltay recommends that you visit your physician if over-the-counter allergy medicine is not relieving your symptoms, or if you have to take them on a prolonged basis for relief.

Thanks to Dr. Faltay for the tips! While it’s not likely that I’ll be able to wash my hair after being outside, I had no idea that sunglasses could help protect you from pollen! Even more reason to protect my peepers…

How do you combat spring allergies?  —Erin