How to Prepare for Allergy Season This Year
Spring allergy is approaching, if it has not started yet. Pollen from trees usually begins to blow in the wind in early spring , and a month or two later, grass pollen. If your eyes haven’t started to itch yet, there are a few things you can prepare for.
Talk to your doctor
If you regularly visit an allergist – or if you have not, but are planning to visit – consider making an appointment. It will be easier for you to avoid specific things that you are allergic to if you know what they are, and an allergy test can help you figure out if pollen is really your main problem, or if your allergy is most likely due to mold or mold. dust. Different trees and plants bloom at different times, so a little knowledge can help you avoid allergens.
Replenish your stocks of prescription drugs that may have run out since last year. While you’re at it, ask when is the best time to take them. Antihistamines work best if you take them before your symptoms start, which is why some doctors recommend that you take your medication about two weeks before your allergy flares up. If you’re not sure what date it will be, take notes this year and set a reminder on your calendar for next year.
Do a general cleaning
Dust is another common allergen, and dust can also contain pollen grains that have been blown in or found externally. Cleaning your home can help remove these allergens, whatever they are. Wear a respirator such as N95 or similar if you have one to avoid breathing in the dust you raise.
Mold spores are another common allergen, and spring rains and wet weather can increase the amount of mold in your home, so keep an eye out for any moldy spots on the walls that need to be cleaned or moldy items that are best thrown into the bin.
Also replace the air filter on your oven or air conditioning system. (Many recommend replacing every three months, but check your own instructions.) If you have an air purifier, check its filter as well.
Check out our tips for each room to protect your home from allergies this spring , which range from small things like getting your dog’s hair pollen out of bed, to big things like thinking if it’s time to rip the rugs and switch. on parquet floors.
Keep track of your pollen count
Pollen is most commonly carried on dry, windy days, but rain tends to temporarily wash it away. You can find pollen counts and even pollen projections at most meteorological services; some even break forecast types for tree pollen, grass, and ragweed. (Ragweed is an autumn allergy.)
When the amount of pollen is high, you need to stay inside with closed windows. As pleasant as the breeze is, for allergies it is better to just use a room fan or turn on the air conditioner a notch higher.