Tips For Surviving Allergy Season
Tips for Surviving Allergy Season in Northern Utah
Spring is finally here, and while many of us are excited for the warmer weather and blooming flowers, allergy sufferers know that it also means the dreaded allergy season has arrived. If you're living in Northern Utah, where allergies can be particularly brutal due to the high levels of pollen and other allergens in the air, you'll want to take extra precautions to ensure you survive this season with your sanity intact. Luckily, we've got some tips that will help you do just that! From natural remedies to lifestyle changes, read on for our top recommendations from your friends at Kent's for surviving allergy season in Northern Utah.
Identify Your Allergens
If you're one of the millions of Americans who suffer from allergies, you know that springtime can be a miserable time of year. Allergy season in Northern Utah typically runs from early April through late May, and during that time pollen levels are high and the air is full of allergens.
But there's no need to suffer! There are a few things you can do to make allergy season a little more bearable. First, it's important to identify your allergens. Are you allergic to tree pollen? Grass pollen? Ragweed? Dust mites? Once you know what you're allergic to, you can take steps to avoid exposure as much as possible.
If you're allergic to tree pollen, for example, try to stay indoors on days when the pollen count is high. If grass pollen is your trigger, avoid mowing the lawn or being outdoors in grassy areas. And if ragweed is your problem, steer clear of open fields and areas where ragweed is known to grow.
In addition to avoiding your triggers, there are a few other things you can do to ease your allergy symptoms:
- Keep windows closed and run the air conditioner in your home and car. This will help filter out allergens from the air.
- Wear a dust mask when cleaning or doing other activities that could stir up dust particles.
- Shower and wash your hair before going to bed so that pollen doesn't have a chance to accumulate
- Monitor Pollen Counts and Local Weather
Pollen counts are highest in the early morning and evening, so plan your outdoor activities accordingly. If you need to be outside during these times, wear a dust mask or pollen filter over your nose and mouth.
Local weather forecasts can help you plan your activities around pollen levels in the air. Check the forecast before heading outdoors, and if possible, avoid being outside when pollen counts are high.
Some Other Tips
If you suffer from allergies, you know that springtime can be a real nightmare. The good news is that there are several things you can do to make the allergy season more bearable. Here are a few tips:
- Take Medications as Needed: If you have been prescribed medication for your allergies, make sure to take it as directed. Some people only take their medication when they are experiencing symptoms, but this is not the most effective way to manage allergies. It is best to take your medication regularly throughout the entire allergy season so that you can prevent symptoms from occurring in the first place.
- Avoid Triggers: Once you know what your triggers are, do your best to avoid them. If pollen is your trigger, try to stay indoors on days when the pollen count is high. If dust is your trigger, make sure to keep your home clean and dust-free. If pet dander is your trigger, try to limit your exposure to pets as much as possible.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids helps thin out mucus and makes it easier for your body to get rid of allergens. Make sure to drink lots of water and avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate you.
- Use a Humidifier: Dry air can exacerbate allergy symptoms like congestion and coughing. Using a humidifier in your home will add moisture to the air and help relieve these symptoms. Just be sure to clean
Avoid Outdoor Activities When Pollen Counts Are High
When pollen counts are high, it's best to avoid outdoor activities. This is because pollen can trigger allergies and cause respiratory problems. If you must go outside, be sure to wear a mask and limit your time outdoors. You should also take showers after being outdoors to remove any pollen that may have gotten on your skin or clothing.
Get Allergy Shots
If you suffer from allergies, getting allergy shots may be a good option for you. Allergy shots are a form of immunotherapy that can help to lessen your symptoms and make it easier for you to get through allergy season.
Allergy shots work by exposing you to small amounts of the allergen that you are allergic to. Over time, this helps your body to build up immunity to the allergen and can reduce your overall allergic reaction.
If you are considering getting allergy shots, be sure to talk to your doctor first. They will be able to help you determine if this is the right treatment option for you and can answer any questions that you may have.
Conclusion
Allergy season can be a difficult time of year, but with the right tips and tricks you can survive it. From using air purifiers to keeping your windows closed and taking allergy medications, there are plenty of ways to help reduce your symptoms so that you can enjoy all that Northern Utah has to offer. With these tips from our team we hope that this spring will be a pleasantly sneeze-free one for you! Stop by Kent's Pharmacy to talk with our Pharmacist for more allergy advice!