Combating Seasonal Allergies

Aaaaaah…. springtime 😊 A time when trees are budding 🌱A time to smell the flowers 👃🌷 A time to…AAACHOOOO 🤧

Yep, spring is in the air, but so are allergens! Unfortunately, many of us struggle with allergies during this time of the year, making it difficult to enjoy the change of season. The good news is that there are many things you can do to combat them. 

Here are a few tips:

• Identify your triggers. The first step to controlling your allergies is to identify what triggers them. This could be pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or mold. Once you know what your triggers are, you can avoid them as much as possible.
• Take over-the-counter medications. Over-the-counter medications like antihistamines and decongestants can help to relieve the symptoms of seasonal allergies. These medications are available at most pharmacies and grocery stores.
• See a medical provider. If your allergies are severe or if you have other symptoms like asthma, you may need to see a medical provider. A provider can prescribe stronger medications or other treatments to help you manage your allergies, including referring you to an allergist.
• Stay indoors on dry, windy days. Pollen levels are usually highest on dry, windy days. If you can, stay indoors on these days or wear a mask when you go outside.
• Avoid lawn mowing, weed pulling, and other gardening chores. These activities can stir up pollen and other allergens. If you can, have someone else do these chores or wear a mask when you do them.
• Remove clothes you've worn outside and shower to rinse pollen from your skin and hair. Don't hang laundry outside — pollen can stick to sheets and towels.
• Wear a face mask if you do outside chores. A face mask can help to filter out pollen and other allergens.

By following these tips, you can help to reduce the severity of your seasonal allergies. If you have any questions or concerns, make an appointment at any of our locations and let our staff do what they do best: care for you!