How to Cope with High Pollen Count in your Area
(445 Words)
Seasonal allergies promote suffering in 50 million people in America, according to ABC News. Symptoms such as congestion, itching, watery eyes, and more are exacerbated when the pollen count is high. This occurs when the pollen count is over 120 particles per cubic foot, and in some areas it can exceed over 5000! There are different steps that you can take to cope with such an environment.
Should you move?
You may think that your only recourse is the extreme step of moving to another area. According to the Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters (CHKD), this will not be as useful as it seems. Many of the triggers that cause seasonal allergies such as grass are found in most of the weather zones across the United States. Even if that trigger is not there, you may find yourself reacting to other, similar triggers. It is likely that you will suffer again within a year or two.
The beautiful indoors
When the pollen count is high, staying indoors is your best action. You can avoid much of the pollen by staying away from it. If you want to exercise, for instance, then choose an indoor gym, exercise bicycle, treadmill or other indoor option.
You also want to keep the outdoors out of your home. Instead of opening up windows and doors, keep the air conditioning on. This will help to keep the pollen out of your home. Do not dry your clothing outdoors but opt for indoor drying.
Precautions when going outdoors
Of course, you cannot avoid going outdoors all of the time. There are different strategies that can aid you when you do. Stay inside during the peak trigger times of 5 a.m. to 10 a.m. Try to avoid places where your pollen allergies are especially bad such as near long grass.
Keeping your grass cut short may help you cope with the high pollen count, but find someone else to cut it. When you do go outdoors and come in, you should wash your clothing, your body and your hair. If you do not take this step, you can further spread the pollen around the house, exacerbating your allergies within it. If you can wear a mask during your outdoor activity then do so.
Medication
There are a variety of medications available for the seasonal allergies one experiences from pollen. These include Claritin and nasal sprays. Of course be sure not to overdo any of the medications. Speak to your health care provider about what might be right for you.
A high pollen count can trigger serious seasonal allergies. The above steps can help you deal with high pollen count in your area.