If you’ve been sniffling and sneezing lately, you’re not alone. Millions of Americans have seasonal allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI). And this time of year, allergy season is in full bloom.
While there’s not much you can do to control the outdoor allergens that come from trees, weeds, grasses and mold, there are actions you can take to limit your exposure and keep your sanctuary clean and clear from some of the common triggers.
Follow these steps and see if you can breathe a little easier this allergy season.
- Keep outdoor allergens outdoors. If you know you’re susceptible to pollen, grass, weeds, mold and other common triggers, keep your windows shut and use an air filtration system to help remove particles from the air. Also, be sure to change the filters in your HVAC as recommended. Avoid outdoor activities that will expose you to allergens, such as gardening and mowing the lawn, or wear a mask to protect yourself. When doing laundry, don’t hang it outside where it can collect potential irritants. If you do start to experience symptoms, such as sniffing, sneezing or itching after spending time outdoors, take a shower and put on clean clothes.
- Monitor the allergen levels in your community. You may be able to do this through your local weather station or a weather app. AAAAI also tracks pollen and mold levels via the National Allergy Bureau. When allergens are high—and when air quality is low—limit the time you spend outside.
- Reduce your exposure to pet dander. Despite what certain pet breeders may tell you, there is no such thing as a hypoallergenic pet, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. However, some pets may cause less severe allergic reactions than others, depending on the amount of allergenic proteins in the skin they shed. If you’re concerned someone in your family is allergic to a family pet, talk to a doctor; in the meantime, be sure the animal stays out of bedrooms and cover air vents with materials that will keep the dander from being transported to different rooms. If you’re looking for a pet that’s less likely to cause allergic reactions, amphibians, reptiles and fish may be safer than feathers and fur.
- Keep your house clean. Vacuum carpets and rugs, and mop the floors to remove dust and dander. Wash your bedding and invest in dust-mite-proof covers to prevent dust mite allergies. Scrub sinks, showers and tubs to disinfect and get rid of mold and be on the lookout for water leaks or puddles. Make weekly cleaning a part of your routine to keep allergens at bay.
- Keep the pests out. Cockroaches aren’t just an assault to the senses—they’re an assault to your immune system. Up to 41% of Americans have a cockroach allergy, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. To prevent cockroaches, keep all food sealed and out of reach. In addition, don’t leave dirty dishes around and clean up crumbs and debris. If you have cockroaches, use traps to get rid of them. If they persist, call a pest control service.
- If you’re suffering, talk to your doctor. If your allergies or asthma are interfering with your day-to-day activities, or if you can’t seem to get rid of them, it’s time to ask for help. Your primary care physician or an allergist can help you come up with a plan to best manage your symptoms and treat your allergies, so that you can feel better.
