5 ways to cope with seasonal allergies

While it is lovely to see our desert ablaze with blossoms, it can mean a flare up of your seasonal allergies.

In case you were wondering, allergies are basically your immune system reacting to pollen. Your immune system sees it as an enemy, so it releases chemicals called histamines, which trigger the symptoms you feel – runny nose and itchy eyes – to get the pollen out of your system.

How can I cope with my allergies?

“Allergies can make you pretty miserable,” said Dr. Jeffrey Lambert, TMCOne. “The good news is you can control your symptoms with medications and changing up your routine. And if over-the-counter remedies don’t work, your doctor can help you find the proper treatment.”

Reduce exposure to pollen

Your air conditioner not only keeps you cool it also keeps pollen outside.

Stay indoors on dry, windy days.

Have your kids or someone who doesn’t suffer from allergies help with the yardwork.

Don’t dry your clothes outdoors.

Take a shower and change clothes before going to sleep.

Filter the air

Clean or change the filters to your air conditioner regularly and use a high-efficiency particulate air filter (HEPA) if you have a forced-air furnace.

Try an over-the-counter medication

Oral antihistamines can help relieve sneezing, itching, a running nose and watery eyes.

Decongestants can provide temporary relief from nasal stuffiness.

Cromolyn sodium nasal spray can ease allergy symptoms and doesn’t have serious side effects. It does work best if you use it before symptoms start.

Take extra steps when pollen counts are high

Check the internet, newspaper or local TV station for pollen forecasts and current pollen levels. If high levels are forecasted, take your allergy medications before you have symptoms.

Close doors and windows when pollen counts are high.

Avoid outdoor activity early in the morning when pollen counts are highest.

When these remedies don’t work, call your doctor

Sometimes you need a little more help. If allergies still have you miserable after trying these things, your primary care provider may recommend you have skin or blood tests to find out exactly what allergens trigger your symptom, and to identify which treatments will work best for you.

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If you’re looking for a new primary care provider, visit tmcone.com.