Everyone loves the spring! People look forward to this blooming season of flowers and fresh breezes every year. But thanks to all of that “blooming,” spring is also a season of sneezing, runny noses, congestion, and other allergy symptoms.
If you’re among the people with seasonal allergies, spring may be a miserable time for you (and your nose). However, there is no need for you to stop yourself from enjoying this colorful season. Some simple strategies, including lifestyle changes, could help you manage your allergy symptoms.
Let’s talk about some simple tips you can incorporate in your life to tamp down your allergies in the springtime, and where you can go in Georgetown to see an outstanding ENT doctor for allergy treatment.
1. Reduce Exposure to Allergens
Allergens are the primary cause of allergic reactions. So, avoiding them whenever possible is the best tip to keep you healthy. Here are some sensible tips to help you reduce allergen exposure:
- Avoid going out on windy days to keep yourself away from dust, pollen, and other allergens flying around. One of the best times to venture out is after rain, as rainfall helps clear pollen from the air and surroundings.
- Gardening work could be a big red flag for your allergy symptoms. If possible, delegate gardening tasks and other lawn work to your family or service providers.
- Avoid hanging your clothes outside, as pollen and other allergens might stick to your clothes and sheets. Instead, dedicate an indoor area for hanging laundry.
- Take a shower after spending time outdoors. Change your clothes to ensure that you are rinsing yourself of allergens from outside.
- Change your clothes before going to sleep. This will also help ensure that no allergens are sticking to your bed.
- If you have pets, make sure to bathe them regularly because pollen might also stick on their fur and bodies.
2. Cover Up
Dealing with seasonal allergies does not necessarily mean you cannot enjoy going outside anymore. If you must go outside, make sure that you are covered up adequately. Wear glasses or sunglasses to shield your eyes from pollens. Always make sure to wear a face mask to avoid inhaling these allergens.
3. Always Be in the Know of Pollen Counts and Other Allergens
Preparation is vital when it comes to dealing with the upcoming allergy season. Always check for the current pollen levels through forecasts. You can get this information from the TV, your local radio station, newspapers, or the internet. Avoid going outside when the pollen count is high, and make sure to close your doors and windows to stop these allergens from coming in.
4. Maintain Clean Air Indoors
The air is the dominant carrier of allergens. Therefore, make sure to use air conditioning in your house and car and limit the use of fans as they draw in air from outside.
You can set a regular maintenance and cleaning schedule for the air conditioning and heaters in your home. Installing a dehumidifier also helps to maintain the indoor air dry. Additionally, it would be best if you regularly clean your floors, including your carpet and furniture, using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter.
5. Keep a Tidy Environment
Besides maintaining the indoor air clean, it is also essential to maintain a tidy environment. Otherwise, the dust mites and mold could grow in your house, worsening your allergies.
- Protect your bedding with allergen-proof covers and change and wash your sheets at least once a week.
- Try to get rid of materials attracting dust, such as curtains, upholstered furniture, ceiling fans, and wall-to-wall carpets. If possible, try to find alternatives to these household items.
- Install an exhaust fan in your bathroom and kitchen to control the humidity. Always ensure these rooms are dry as moist environments are prone to molds.
6. Have Antihistamines Ready
Several medications are available over-the-counter for spring allergies. One of your first options could be antihistamines. However, keep in mind that some options like Benadryl are sedating and cause drowsiness. If you need to stay awake and active, try looking for medicines like Claritin, Allegra, or Zyrtec.
With these medications, you can easily control your allergic reactions during spring.
7. Decongestants and Nasal Sprays
Decongestants and nasal sprays will help you get relief from nasal congestion. They work by relieving congestion in your nose and sinus but simultaneously can develop some side effects such as headaches, increased blood pressure, nosebleeds, and drowsiness.
8. Visit an Allergist
Seasonal allergies and general allergies can interfere with the quality of your life. So, when your allergies are setting you back from normalcy, don’t hesitate to visit an allergist. These allergy doctors can give you a specific diagnosis and treatment option to help you tackle this condition.
Trusted Allergy Reaction Specialists in Georgetown, TX
Are spring allergies getting in the way? Then, it’s time to get tested and treated! Here at Georgetown ENT, our expert providers are dedicated to providing effective allergy testing and the best treatment plans for you.
To know more about allergy reaction treatment options or schedule an appointment, contact us today at (512) 869-0604 or fill out our Online Appointment Form. We are excited to help you take full control of your allergies!
