Spring is officially here. For many of us, that means green grass, good friends, and spending time outdoors. For many others, it means a whole lot of sneezing. And possibly even worse. Spring allergy season – which usually begins in March before peaking mid-May – regularly wreaks havoc on the asthmatic and the susceptible, potentially rendering bright, sunny days into snotty, miserable messes. But with a few steps to prepare – it doesn’t necessarily have to be that way.
Check it out:
- Manage your symptoms with OTC meds. Based on your allergy history, it may be a good idea to take a trip to the local pharmacy for some antihistamines. Non-prescription allergy medications not only help to alleviate symptoms as they’re occurring, but they can often nip them in the bud (sorry, no pollen pun intended) before they start. Inflammation is the culprit. This happens when your immune system mistakes allergens (pollens, dust, etc.) as bigger dangers, causing it to churn out antibodies. That’s when the stuffiness, the sinus pressure, the sneezing, and the scratchiness begins. Antihistamines can provide relief. Just be sure to talk to your doctor first before making any new medication decisions.
- Start monitoring pollen levels. Yes, it’s a pain, but it’s also an important preventive measure. Seek out and settle on a trusted pollen count website or app and monitor daily conditions. This will ultimately help you with scheduling in the long run. Remember – pollen counts are typically at their lowest in the early, early morning (pre-dawn), and late afternoon.
- Don’t skimp on the spring cleaning. Scour your home for any pollen, dander, or other irritants that may have already been tracked in by the kids or the pets. Vacuum, dust, and repeat. Replace your air filters as instructed and strategize for ideal airflow during those warmer days. Remember, windows are typically no no’s for allergy sufferers during spring allergy season. Shut them, and the doors, and resort to your AC when you need to cool down. Also check for mold spores in moisture-centric areas, like under the sinks and basements, and laundry rooms. Keep those humidity levels in check as much as humanly possible.
- Talk to your doctor about best defenses. If all else fails, you may be due for allergy testing. Your family doctor or physician should be able to refer you to an allergist who can pinpoint your exact allergy triggers. Your doctor may also be able to prescribe a medication that would alleviate your symptoms faster. Schedule an appointment and get some relief today.
Remember: FirstCall Medical Center is here to help. Call us at (301) 421-1214, or just drop in. Walk-in appointments are available once again.
