Seasonal allergies started with a bang this year, and the grasses in the area have started releasing their pollen, as well. For the over 25% of Americans with seasonal allergies,1 grass pollen is the worst offender, so grass pollen season is peak allergy season. Here’s how to prepare.
At Home
Pollen is an outdoor allergen, but it can be carried indoors easily on clothes, pets and sports or camping gear. Consider installing a HEPA air filter in your home. These high-quality air filters will catch any errant pollen that enters your home, removing it from the indoor air.
Also consider doing a deep-clean of your home so indoor allergens don’t exacerbate the effects of your pollen allergies. Thoroughly remove mold, dust and excess pet dander from those hard-to-reach places.
In the Medicine Cabinet
The last thing you want is to start sneezing and then realize you’re out of antihistamines. Make sure you have a supply of your favorite allergy medications, such as:
- Antihistamines
- Decongestants
- Nasal sprays
- Eye drops
- Inhalers
- Topical anti-itch cream
Antihistamines, in particular, work best when they have a chance to build up in your system. Now is a great time to start taking these medications daily, even if your symptoms haven’t arrived quite yet.
Bookmark the Local Weather Forecast
Our local weather forecast includes a pollen count. Check this daily so you can be aware of high-pollen days and get a feel for the greater patterns. Additionally, factors such as wind and rain might influence how your allergies affect you, so keep an eye on those, as well.
Speak to An Allergist
If you don’t know what you’re allergic to exactly, but you do know that spring and summer make you miserable with allergy symptoms, consider getting an allergy test so you can gain clarity on what you need to avoid. Or, if you know what you’re allergic to and aren’t getting the relief you need from over-the-counter medications, it might be time to think about starting a long-term allergy treatment plan, such as immunotherapy. An allergist can help with both of these needs. Contact Palmetto ENT & Allergy today to get a head start on your allergy management this year.
Learn More
1 U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020, February 21). FastStats: Allergies. CDC. https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/allergies.htm