SEASONAL ALLERGY TIPS

It's summertime! The sun is out, the sky is clear, and everyone is heading outside to enjoy the season. Of course, if you suffer from outdoor allergies, you may not be as enthusiastic as your companions about heading outside.


If you’re plagued by pollen, here are a few tips to help you through the season:


Before Exposure: for the millions of Americans suffering from outdoor allergies, watching the local weather could save you a day of frustration. Pay attention to the pollen count for the day. If you feel that it may simply be too high to brave the outdoors, don’t! That’s not to say that you should close your windows and refuse to open your door. But, it might be a good idea to change your plans from a 3-mile hike through the woods to a nice stroll through the park. 


During Exposure: you’re no stranger to your outdoor allergy symptoms. You know what triggers your symptoms, and you should be prepared to counteract them. When you feel your symptoms start to flare up, take a dose of over-the-counter-medication.


After Exposure: with the weather warming up, it may be tempting to put on a pair of shorts and a tank top before you head out. However, the more skin you cover, the less allergens collect on your body. When you return home, simply change clothes and retire your outdoor-wear to the laundry basket. You may want to direct yourself toward the shower quickly to remove pollen from your skin and use a neti-pot to clear your nasal passages.