Stuffed nose? Runny eyes? Incessant sneezing? Yes, spring is here — the season otherwise known as allergy season. Hay fever can really put a damper on the often long awaited arrival of sunny days and warm weather. To help you fully enjoy this part of the year we have collected 5 simple things you can do to relieve your allergies — today.
1. Don’t invite pollen into the house
The source of your hay fever comes from outdoors — and it’s best to keep it there. Pollen is an airborne allergen that flows freely from trees and flowers as soon as you step outside of your home. So remember to keep your windows and doors closed as much as possible — and instead switch on the air conditioner if things get too hot. Remember — the same goes for your car.
2. Take a shower before bed
When you’re outside your hair, skin and clothes catch a lot of pollen. In order to maximise your chances of getting a good night’s sleep without itching your eyes out you should take a shower before bed. If you do this you wash away all the pollen that has gathered in your hair and on your skin. It’s a good recipe for waking up up fresh, relaxed and ready to take on a new day. Rather than stuffy, puffy and ready to remain in bed.
3. Wash your clothes and leave your shoes
Like mentioned above, pollen gets stuck on every part of your body — especially on your clothes. It’s a good idea to wash your clothes often to get rid of all the yellow powder. But remember not to hang them to dry outside — then you have to do it all over again!
If you have some furry friends living with you, realize that they carry pollen as well. While your pets may not appreciate taking a bath everyday, you can make sure they stay out of your bedroom so that you’ll get a good night’s sleep.
Also: leave your shoes at the door. They’re a real pollen-carrier.
4. Plan your day
Pollen count is usually highest between 10 AM and 4 PM during the day. If you have errands to do, it’s a good idea to plan them so you don’t run into a pollen-tornado that knocks you out for the rest of the day. Especially if you’re going to exercise, an indoor treadmill, a late night run or an early morning jog are your best options. When your heart rate and breathing frequency increase you naturally breathe in more pollen — so consider that before you go for that mid-day run through the park.
5. Over-the-counter medicine
If you have any prior condition your should always consult with your doctor before you take any medicine. With that said, over-the-counter antihistamines are often a great relief for many people. While they may not completely remove your allergies — they definitely take the edge off. And if you’re hesitant about using nose spray, you can rinse your nostrils with saline solution. If you make your own saline solution, just make sure to use distilled, sterile or previously boiled water to avoid any nasty side effects
Hopefully these tips can help you get the most out of springtime — without being hampered by a runny nose and swollen eyes. And, as always, if you have any questions regarding your allergies or otherwise — don’t hesitate to contact any of the competent doctors that are part of the RingMD team.
