Seasonal Allergies Tips to Minimize Pollen Exposure

(407 Words)
Seasonal allergies cause suffering in people around the globe. According to the Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters, pollen is the culprit behind many of these allergies. Different steps can help you reduce your exposure to this common trigger to minimize your allergy symptoms.
The first step is to avoid the outdoors, especially during the peak pollen times. When you are outside, you increase your exposure. This is especially true if you are nearby to plants and grass where pollen is common. Obviously you may not be able to completely avoid the outdoors. The peak pollen times are generally between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m. If possible, try to at least stay indoors for those times.
With certain outdoor activities, you may be able to wear a mask in order to avoid the pollen. For instance, if you are mowing the lawn, then a mask may be beneficial. Of course if you can avoid the worst triggers like mowing, then you will do even better. After rain, you may have less exposure to pollen, so choose these times for your outdoor activities if possible. The lawn should also be mowed on a regular basis to keep the grass short.
Keeping a clean home can make a difference in pollen control. There are different areas where dust and mold may collect. You should especially clean windows, air-conditioning vents and book shelves. Wear a mask while cleaning.
You may still be exposed to a lot of pollen even while indoors if you keep the windows open. If you use fans, it may serve to further spread pollen around the house. Keeping these closed and the air conditioner on can help keep pollen out. When you are in your car, keep the windows closed as well.
If you do spend time outside, take a shower as soon as you get in. If you go to bed immediately, then the pollen may get in your bed and increase your exposure. Wash your clothes as soon as possible, too. Also, avoid drying clothes outdoors.
Some people feel that they can move to another area to avoid exposure to pollen. Unfortunately, this is rarely effective in the long term. Many of the types of pollen are common throughout the United States. Also, you may find that you react to other triggers.
Reducing your exposure to pollen can help allergy sufferers manage and control their allergies. The above tips may help you avoid exposure.