BEATING ALLERGY SEASON

The fall is allergy season for many people. How can you beat your allergy symptoms and still enjoy outdoor activities? Let's look at some pointers to help get through this time of year and still have fun when you’re outside.

Check Pollen Levels

Many local health departments or weather channels will publish pollen counts in your area. Check when counts are at their highest and schedule outdoor activities around those times.

Wash Your Face

Washing your face as soon as you come indoors helps get pollen and other allergens off your face and can reduce allergy symptoms.

Use Saline (Salt Water)

Rinsing your nasal passages with saline when you come indoors can help reduce allergen exposure and reduce symptoms. Use them before bed as well.

And if you suffer from eye-related symptoms, use a few saline eye drops to flush out allergens when you come in from outdoors. Keep these drops in the refrigerator. The cold will help relieve itching as a bonus.

(However, be sure to use nasal sprays for your nose and eye drops for your eyes!)

Use Non-Sedating Antihistamines as Needed  

Over-the-counter antihistamines, such as Zyrtec or Claritin, taken daily during allergy season, can help manage symptoms.  As with any medicine, consult with your primary care provider before starting a daily medication to make sure it’s safe for you to do so.

These tips will help allergy sufferers maintain outdoor fun during this time of year. Enjoy the fall season!