Survive Spring Allergies

Survive Spring Allergies

Spring has sprung! Now you want to get outside and enjoy the warmer weather. But if you find yourself sneezing and sniffling during the spring months, you might have allergies. In some people, allergies can trigger symptoms of asthma.

Pollen from grass, ragweed and trees set off allergy and asthma symptoms for many people. If you’re allergic to pollen, you may have symptoms like:

* Runny nose
* Itchy or red eyes
* Chronic cough
* Itchy rashes

If you have asthma and pollen is one of your triggers, you may have more symptoms like:
* Chest tightness
* Chronic cough
* Shortness of breath
* Wheezing

Have you noticed that your allergy or asthma symptoms are worse on dry breezy days? This happens because the wind picks up pollen and carries it in the air. Pollen counts measure how much pollen is in the air. Usually, the pollen count is higher in the morning than in the afternoon or evening. Tracking the pollen count can help you to keep your allergy and asthma symptoms under control. Most local news and radio stations report pollen counts during peak pollen season. Watch or listen to local weather pollen reports before planning to go outside.

It is almost impossible to avoid pollen altogether. But here are some other tips for relief during peak allergy seasons:
* Try to stay indoors as much as possible whenever the pollen counts are high in your area.
* While indoors, keep doors and windows closed. On hot days, turn on the air conditioner.
* Avoid yard work, like mowing the grass.
* Change your clothes and shower after being outdoors.
* Wash your bedding weekly.
* Vacuum or sweep your floors weekly.
* Keep pets out of your room. Their fur can
collect pollen and other allergens.

Are your allergy or asthma symptoms too much to take? Schedule an appointment with your doctor. He or she can help find a medicine or treatment that will work best for you. If you have asthma, your doctor should develop an asthma care plan. This can help you to control your asthma and know what actions to take if you have an asthma attack.