Here are five tips from the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (ACAAI) to help you and your family breathe easier during allergy season:
1.Minimize Exposure to Allergens
During the fall, be mindful of common allergy triggers. Keep an eye on daily pollen forecasts and try to stay indoors when pollen counts are high.It’s also advisable to limit outdoor activities in the morning, as this is typically when ragweed pollen levels are at their peak. To prevent allergens from entering your home, keep doors and windows shut.
2. Change Clothes after Outdoor Activities
To avoid bringing pollen indoors, change your clothes as soon as you get home from being outside. Remove your shoes at the door, put your outdoor clothing directly into the laundry, and take a shower. Pay special attention to your hair, as pollen can accumulate there.
* helpful Hint: Wearing a hat and sunglasses can protect your eyes from pollen. For outdoor chores like mowing the lawn, consider wearing a NIOSH-approved N95 respirator mask. Remember to remove these items before going inside.
3. Proactive Allergy Medication Use
Don’t wait for allergy symptoms to appear before starting your medication. Whether you use over-the-counter or prescription options,begin taking them about two weeks before your typical allergy season begins. Continue your medication for two weeks after the first notable frost, as nasal and eye symptoms related to ragweed allergies can persist even after pollen is no longer airborne.
4. Explore Immunotherapy for Long-Term Relief
For individuals with severe or chronic allergies, immunotherapy, administered through shots or tablets, can be a highly effective long-term treatment. This approach is particularly beneficial for pollen allergies and can also help manage asthma. Unlike medications that only address symptoms, immunotherapy works by gradually desensitizing your immune system to allergens, much like a vaccine.5.Consult Your Allergist
Schedule an appointment with a board-certified allergist, especially if you’ve noticed changes in the severity of your symptoms or developed new ones. If you’re experiencing increased coughing or wheezing, discuss asthma testing with your allergist. If you’ve never seen an allergist before, now might be the time to book a visit. allergists are uniquely qualified to diagnose and treat allergies and asthma, offering treatment options like immunotherapy and personalized action plans. You can find an allergist near you by visiting ACAAI.org/Find-an-Allergist.
By implementing these five strategies, you can prepare for fall allergens like ragweed and enjoy the season with fewer allergy symptoms.
