Spring allergies are on the way, if they haven’t started yet. Tree pollen tends to start blowing in the wind in early spring, followed by grass pollen a month or two later. If your eyes haven’t started itching yet, there are a few things you can do to get ready.
Check with your doctor
If you see an allergist on a regular basis — or if you haven’t, but have intended to — think about booking an appointment. It will be easier to avoid the specific things you are allergic to if you know what they are, and an allergy test can help you find out if pollen is really your main concern or if you are likely to your allergies are related to mold or dust. Different trees and plants bloom at different times, so a little knowledge can help prevent allergens.
Refill prescription drugs that have run out since last year While you are there, ask about the best time to start taking them. Antihistamines work best if you take them before you start showing symptoms, so some providers recommend taking the medication about two weeks before allergies tend to appear. If you’re not sure what the date would be, take notes this year and set a reminder on your calendar for next year.
Do some spring cleaning
Dust is another common allergen, and dust can also harbor pollen grains that have burst in or been tracked from outside. Cleaning the house can help eliminate these allergens, whatever they may be. Wear a dust mask, such as an N95 or similar, if you do not have one, to prevent you from breathing any of the dust you make.
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Mold spores are another common allergen, and spring rains and humid weather can increase the amount of mold in your home, so keep an eye out for mold spots on the walls. that need to be cleaned or flowery objects that are better in the trash.
Also, creplace the oven or air conditioning system air filter. (It is recommended to change many every three months, but see your instructions.) If you have an air purifier, check the filter as well.
Check out our room tips anti-allergic in your home this spring, ranging from small items like keeping your dog’s bed laden with pollen from the bed, to large ones like considering if it’s time to rip off the carpets and switch to hardwood floors.
See pollen count
The pollen blows to the maximum in dry, windy days, but rain tends to wash it away temporarily. You can find a pollen count and even a pollen forecast at most weather services; some even break down the forecast type in pollens from trees, herbs, and ragweeds. (Ambrosia is an allergy in the fall).
When the pollen count is high, you will want to stay inside with the windows closed. As nice as a cool breeze can be, it’s best for your allergies to just use an indoor fan or turn on the air conditioning.