Spring Allergy Lessons and How to Reduce Triggers

If your trusty box of tissues joins robins and daffodils as the most reliable signs of spring, you’re among the millions of Americans who suffer from spring seasonal allergies.

Also known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis, spring allergies kick in when your immune system overreacts to the grass, pollen and mold floating around this time of year, triggering a runny nose, itchy eyes and other typical allergy symptoms*.

Be aware of the three key culprits behind seasonal allergy flare-ups:

1. Weather.

Spring allergens spike on warm, dry, windy days, which create the ideal conditions for circulating pollen.

2. Time of day.

Allergies are typically worse during morning, after the dew dries and plants begin to shed pollen.

3. Direct contact.

Mowing the lawn, gardening and other such hands-on outdoor activities stir up allergens. And keep in mind that pollen can cling to things like furry pets and clothes, particularly when they’re line-dried.

Four ways to avoid triggering situations and unwanted exposure to allergens:

Monitor pollen counts.

Follow the pollen forecast on a website, app or your local news. Avoid outdoor activities when counts for your triggering allergens peak.

Be smart outside.

Wear sunglasses, to limit eye exposure to allergens. A hat can help, too. Use an N95 filter mask and take your allergy medication before mowing the lawn or doing other yardwork.

Clean up.

Wash your hands or shower and change clothes after working or playing outside. Consider bathing nightly, to rinse off any allergens before bed.

Seek a professional.

If you’re having troubling finding relief, consider checking in with an allergist. A good one can help better identify your current triggers and troubleshoot remedies.

Sources:

*American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology