Knoxville, TN was recently named the capital of allergies in America. I think there are many Eastern Shore natives that may disagree. According to reports, about 35 million Americans suffer from allergies. The pollen count is high in addition to mold making this a terrible allergy season. Here are some tips to help...
1. Wash/shower before bed to remove the pollen from your body
2. Keep windows and doors shut to prevent the allergens from coming into the home
3. Use the recirculating air setting in your car
4. Wear sunglasses/eyeglasses to prevent eye exposure to allergens
5. Keep your car windows rolled up during peak season
6. Stay indoors in the morning (9am-2pm) when pollen count is high
7. Clean air filters in your home and dust shelves, vents, and windows
8. Vacuum (HEPA filter preferably) at least weekly
9. Wash bedding weekly
10. Do not dry laundry outdoors during allergy season
11. Wear a mask when mowing the lawn
12. Saline wash/rinse your nose at least twice a day...a combination of warm water, about a quarter-teaspoon of salt, and a quarter-teaspoon of baking soda administered through a squeeze bottle can help
13. Over the counter anti-histamine medications such as Zyrtec, Claritin, or diphenhydramine can help with symptoms
14. Decongestants can help with stuffy noses but should be used with caution. Nasal decongestants should only be used for three days or less.
15. Try a neti-pot to help flush out the allergens...click here for more information
16. Know your triggers and avoid them...talk to your physician for guidance
There are prescription medications ranging from tablets to steroidal nasal sprays that can help with allergies. Immunotherapy or allergy shots can also help. It works by exposing small amounts of the allergen to your body thereby increasing your tolerance to the substances (allergens) that provoke the allergy symptoms.
Hope this was helpful. For more information, talk with your health care professional.
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