Four Tips to Keep Allergies in Check this Spring

It’s Spring, and for many people, along with the beautiful weather – and new blooming foliage – comes allergies. Many people suffer with allergies, particularly pollen.  Unfortunately, this type of allergen can be very difficult to avoid, since every time you step out of your house, you are surrounded by the very things that can get your eyes watering, sinuses clogged and lungs wheezing. But there are ways to diminish the effects of seasonal allergies on your health:

• Schedule your outdoor activities, including exercise, in the early morning or evening, since this is the time when the pollen count is lowest.
• When indoors, keep windows closed and use the air conditioner to reduce the pollen inside your home.
• If you need to be outdoors, wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from allergens.  When you come in, shower and wash your hair so that the pollen is washed off your skin and hair, and doesn’t get into your bed linens.
• If you are exposed to pollen, ask your doctor about using a nasal spray or wash like a neti pot to clear your nasal passages. Additionally, ask about over-the-counter preventative allergy medications, which might help relieve your symptoms or block your allergic reaction.

For older adults and their caregivers, it is good to keep in mind that as we age, our bodies do not metabolize medications as well as they did when we were younger. Even over-the-counter medications can have longer lasting effects, such as prolonged sleepiness or dryness. It is important to speak with your doctor if you notice unusual or long-lasting side effects to any medication that you are taking. Taking just a few simple steps can alleviate your allergy symptoms and help you enjoy the weather this spring.