As the weather begins to turn from wet and drizzly to warm and blossoming you may be searching for spring allergy relief.
The spring allergy season typically begins when the thermometer hits 60 degrees for 3-4 days. When that happens, pollen from plants starts moving through the air. According to Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Foundation of Northern California Juniper/Cedar/Cypress are all related and are major causes of allergic disease in Northern California. Acacia is heavy pollen and pollinates in February and into March. There are many other contributors and they are listed in detail on their website. However, knowing the contributing factors does not bring us spring allergy relief, but can help us avoid allergy triggers.
There are many ways you can lessen spring allergy symptoms that plague many of us during the season:
- If your symptoms are severe, ask your trusted physician. He/she might be able to refer you to an allergist. An allergist is a medical practitioner specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of allergies.
- Stay indoors as much as possible, with your windows closed.
- Invest in an air filter to keep your indoor air as clean as possible.
- Making sure your air filtration systems (such as your air conditioner) have clean filters or replace them if needed.
- If you are a pet owner, make sure you have limited contact with your pet during the peak season and/or wipe them down upon re-entry to your home if they have been outdoors.
- Showering and changing your clothes before bed to remove excess pollen can reduce interrupted sleep from allergy attacks.
- Washing your face often and rinsing your nasal cavity from pollen you have inhaled.
- The removal of shoes when entering your home can lessen allergens inside the home.
- Wearing a face mask when outdoors. (for severe allergy sufferers)
- Taking over the counter medications can be helpful and work best if taken before the allergy season begins. Always consult with your doctor when taking any medication.
There are helpful apps that can inform you of the pollen count in your area. WebMD Allergy, Zyrtec AllergyCast, and WeatherBug are options you can download on your smart device. They can inform you of the pollen count as well as the major allergy factors in your area at any given time.
Finding spring allergy relief can at times be frustrating, but it’s important to remember there are options available so you can enjoy the turning of the seasons in a non-allergic way!
