The end of winter is upon us, which means the beauty of Spring has begun. For most Americans, this also means allergy season is beginning. This can bring all kinds of woes to those who enjoy the outdoors including sneezing, itchy eyes, and runny noses. It’s vital to ensure you’re prepared when allergy season hits, so take a look at a few pointers from our Allergists.
Stock Up That Medicine Cabinet
Make sure you have all the necessary allergy medications before you start experiencing symptoms. If your medicine cabinet is already stocked from last year, be sure to check labels and expiration dates as well. Once you’ve stocked up, you can even start taking your medication a little early; that way; your body is ready to go.
Keep Your House Allergen Proof
This is especially important if you’re allergic to pollen, as it travels everywhere. Keeping windows closed in your car and house can offer some relief. You can even go a step further and remove shoes before walking inside and washing clothes as soon as you get in to remove any pollen that may have followed you in. Showering before bed or earlier after you get home can also ensure you don’t transfer any pollen that may be in your hair to your bed.
Add More Antioxidants to Your Diet
Most fruits and veggies are significant sources of antioxidants, which can naturally help you fight off any inflammation that occurs when you start having allergic reactions. Some great fruit and veggie options for allergy sufferers include:
- Grapes
- Blueberries
- Dark green veggies
- Sweet potatoes
- Beets
Adding any one of these to your diet can help boost your defense against allergens.
Start Checking Pollen Reports
Keep an eye on your local pollen counts. You can easily keep up with this by visiting our pollen counter page for regular updates.
Take Your Workouts Inside
If you’re one who loves to go for a morning or afternoon jog, consider moving your activity indoors, especially if pollen counts are high. You may want to invest in a gym membership or subscribe to an exercise stream. Keep in mind that pollen levels are usually highest in the afternoons, so the earlier you can exercise or get your chores done, the better.
Know What You’re Allergic To And Your Options
Knowledge is power and knowing what you’re allergic to is a big step in getting through allergy season with minimal issues. Once you know what you are allergic to, you can do your best to take precautions to reduce your symptoms, especially when that type of pollen has a high count. Another option can be to seek allergen Immunotherapy (allergy shots) which are a safe and effective treatment program designed to reduce allergic sensitivity to environmental substances such as dust mites, mold, animal dander and pollen.
Contact us to set an appointment for allergy testing or to learn more about allergy shots we offer. The Allergy Group has several locations including in Boise, Caldwell, Nampa, Meridian and Eagle.