Top 5 Tips for Surviving Spring Allergies
Avoiding Spring Allergies in Wisconsin
Following the winter thaw, as we get further into Wisconsin’s spring, flowers bloom and trees begin to bud. Most of us can’t wait to get outside and enjoy the warmer weather.
But if you have seasonal allergies, coughing, sneezing and congestion can leave you indoors and miserable. Here are some tips to help you relieve the symptoms of spring allergies without a trip to the doctor’s office.
Avoid Allergy Triggers
Take the steps below to avoid allergy triggers.
- Avoid hanging laundry on the clothesline to dry
- Remove clothes and shower after coming in from outside
- If possible, have someone else mow the lawn and tend to the garden
- Stay indoors on dry, windy days (the best time to go outside is after it rains)
- Wear a dust mask when doing outdoor chores
Watch Pollen Counts
Make sure to watch the news for pollen forecasts. If the forecast calls for high pollen counts, try taking allergy medication before you show any symptoms. Plus, remember to close your windows and doors when pollen counts are high. If you have to go outside, avoid venturing out in the mornings when pollen is highest.
Keep Indoor Air Clean
There really is no way to keep all pollen out of your home, but you can reduce their presence by running your air conditioning. Also, try to use high-efficiency filters and change them regularly. Remember, running the air conditioning in your car will help reduce your exposure to pollen, too.
Rinse Your Sinuses
For effective and inexpensive relief from congestion, rinse your nasal passages with distilled, sterile saline solution. Rinsing will flush out mucus and allergens from your nose. Try using a squeeze bottle or Neti pot, usually found at any local pharmacy.
Try Over-the-Counter Medication
Several nonprescription medications can help ease allergy symptoms, including antihistamines, decongestants and nasal sprays. For many people, over-the-counter medications are enough to help ease symptoms. If you can’t seem to clear up your allergies, talk to your doctor. He or she will help you find additional treatment options for your seasonal allergies.
