You may notice that you sneeze and cough more during certain times of the year. In this case, you may have seasonal allergies, which are allergy symptoms that occur during specific times of the year, typically when allergens are released into the air. The most common spring allergy trigger is tree pollen, which peaks from March to May.
The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America reports that 81 million people in the country are allergic to pollen, grass and weeds in the spring.
You can reduce your exposure to seasonal allergens and their impact on your body, such as sneezing, stuffy or runny nose, and watery eyes. Try these strategies to manage seasonal allergies:
- Keep track of pollen and mold counts. Pollen and mold counts can be found online or on the local news. Monitoring allergens, especially tree pollen, can help you know when to avoid spending excessive time outside.
- Keep the indoor air clean. Closing windows and doors can help prevent allergens from entering your home and sticking to items like furniture and carpet. Lean on air conditioning, and be sure to change high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters often.
- Shower and put on clean clothing after spending time outdoors. After playing or working outdoors, pollen may be stuck to your clothes, hair and skin, which can irritate your allergies.
- Bathe pets often. If your pets go inside and outside, they are likely tracking in pollen on their coats. Bathe them weekly, especially after spending a lengthy time outdoors.
- Wash bedding weekly in hot water. Pollen can settle on sheets and blankets, triggering allergy symptoms at bedtime and disrupting your rest.
- Vacuum regularly. When pollen levels are high, vacuum floors at least once a week. It’s also best to use a vacuum with a HEPA filter.
For many people, avoiding allergens and using over-the-counter medications are enough to ease their allergy symptoms. Talk to your doctor if your symptoms remain bothersome; they can provide guidance on alternative treatments.
