The flowers are in bloom and so are your allergies. Sneezing, coughing, itchy eyes, congestion, and sometimes rashes are just a few of the symptoms you may experience during the spring.
The biggest offender in springtime is pollen, which is hard to avoid since it’s almost everywhere. It’s found in trees, grass, and weeds, making it difficult to spend quality time outside if you react poorly to it.
Our specialist at Elam Health and Wellness, Dr. Stephanie Opusunju, understands how difficult it is to enjoy the spring when suffering from allergies. To help you out, we asked her to share five tips on how to ease your discomfort.
1. Check the pollen count
Nowadays, you can check the pollen count before leaving the house by using weather apps and websites. On high-pollen days, stay indoors if you can, especially in the morning when pollen levels are at their peak.
If you must go outside, wear a face mask for some protection against pollen.
2. Keep your home allergy-free
To avoid allergic reactions inside your home, take the following steps to keep your space allergy-free:
- Keep windows closed on high-pollen days
- Use an air purifier with a HEPA filter
- Wash bedding, curtains, and clothes frequently to remove pollen
- Change your clothes after coming in from outdoors, and wash your skin and hair daily to prevent pollen from spreading in your home
3. Clean your pets
You aren’t the only one who gathers pollen on clothes, skin, and hair. If you regularly walk your pets outside, they can carry pollen on their fur and bring it into your home. Cleaning them daily can help prevent this.
4. Stay hydrated and support your immune system
Drinking plenty of water helps keep mucus thin and sinuses clear. In addition, what you eat influences your immune system. Avoid artificial sweeteners and refined foods, as they can negatively affect your gut microbiome, where most of your immune cells are produced.
Probiotics and omega-3s can strengthen your immune system and reduce inflammation.
5. Give over-the-counter medications a try
If your allergies aren’t severe, nasal sprays, decongestants, and antihistamines can provide quick relief. You may also be able to use them preventively. If you know you’ll spend a lot of time outdoors, taking them beforehand can help.
If over-the-counter medications aren’t enough, we can help with other treatment options for your allergies.
Treat your allergies with us
Sometimes, allergies don’t go away on their own, and no amount of preparation helps. In such cases, seeing a specialist is not just about relieving discomfort — severe allergies place significant stress on your body and cause complications.
If you need guidance on managing your allergies, contact us to schedule an appointment at our office in Dallas, Texas.