Fall has almost arrived, bringing cool, crisp days — and allergies that cause sneezing and watery eyes. According to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, 35 million Americans suffer from seasonal allergies.
Ragweed is the most common allergy trigger of hay fever in fall, although mold is another common cause. Seventeen species of ragweed grow throughout the United States, and if you have pollen allergies, you have a 75 percent change of being allergic to ragweed. Fight back with these five strategies to curb the sneezing and wheezing.
1. Stay indoors
Keep windows and doors shut, and stay inside during peak pollen times — usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI). Up-to-date pollen information can be found at the AAAAI’s website. Go here. If you must work outdoors raking leaves, gardening, or mowing your lawn, protect yourself by wearing a mask.
. Change your filters
Dirty filters can’t filter the pollen bombarding your home. Clean or change air conditioning and furnace filters using high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters. Not only will you breathe easier, clean filters use less energy and will help lower your energy costs. Also use HEPA filter in your vacuum cleaner to help eliminate pollen, dust, and mold.
3. Clean heating ducts
Before turning on the heat for the first time, have your home’s heating ducts cleaned. Mold, dust mites, and other allergens collect in vents during the summer months and will be blown into your house as soon as the heat is turned on. Since cleaning heating ducts releases allergens, arrange to leave home while they are being cleaned and for several hours afterwards.
4. Keep allergens outside
Leave jackets and shoes at the door to keep from bringing pollen inside. Shower at night and wash your hair to eliminate pollen that’s collected during the day on your skin and hair. If you have pets that go outside, keep them off the furniture and bathe them frequently to wash off pollen and minimize dander. Avoid using outdoor clotheslines that bring pollen inside on towels, sheets, and clothing.
5. Take your medicine
Over-the-counter antihistamines can reduce sniffles and sneezing, and decongestants can relieve congestion and swelling. Some meds combine both antihistamines and decongestants in a single tablet. Antihistamine eye drops tackle itchy, runny eyes. Take antihistamines at least 30 minutes before going outdoors, and if you can’t cope with the misery, see your doctor. He may suggest allergy shots that are able to relieve your symptoms for longer periods of time.
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