As the seasons turn, the parks are in bloom, people are picnicking – and that pollen count is way up. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, 50 million people in the United States suffer from nasal allergies every year. And while you can’t stop allergies altogether, you can keep a few tips and tricks in mind that will help limit them. Let’s take a look at some ways you can manage your allergies better this season.
Check the Weather
If you are allergic to pollen, check the pollen count every day and plan to be inside when the pollen count is high. This will reduce allergy flare ups. There are a lot of ways you can get the pollen count in your area including television and radio news and weather apps for your smartphone. The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology even offers an interactive map and email alerts on pollen levels.
Shower Away the Allergens
Shower immediately after returning home from a day out. This will get rid of any allergens that came home with you. Make sure to change your clothes right away and wash them as soon as possible to ensure the allergens stuck to them don’t transfer over to your furniture.
Give Your Pets a Bath
We often forget about our pets when we think about ways to reduce allergies. When you take your pet for a walk, they bring back allergens into the home just like you. Make sure to give them baths often during high pollen season to reduce the allergens coming into your home. Additionally, if you are allergic to dander or pet hair, brush them often and vacuum your home frequently.
Change Air Filters
Most of us remember to take our allergy medication and keep indoors when the pollen count is high. But, what about the allergens lingering in your home? It’s time to add a new to-do item to the ‘spring cleaning’ list. Change your air filters to High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters. These filters will help keep allergens out of the house so you experience less allergy symptoms.
Ditch the Carpet
Consider replacing your carpets with hardwood or laminate floors. Carpets are notorious for trapping and storing dirt, germs, and allergens. Replacing them with hard floors will significantly reduce allergen buildup in your home.
Don’t Forget Mold
Pollen and pet dander are not the only allergens to worry about this spring season. A lot of people are allergic to mold! According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, basements, bathrooms, and any leak-prone areas are breeding grounds for mold and mildew. Be on the lookout for any mold in your home and get rid of it as soon as possible to reduce your allergies.
If you are suffering from allergies, a nurse practitioner can help you get control of your symptoms. With more than 70 years of collective experience, the team of Nurse Practitioners at FamilyCare of Kent offers a host of treatments for allergies – from inhalers to steroid asthma medications. To make an appointment, call (253) 859-2273 or request an appointment online.