Allergy season can be a misery for tens of millions of Americans each year. Tree, grass, and other pollens can cause runny noses, itchy eyes, coughing, and sneezing. The severity of your allergies can vary depending on where you live and what you’re allergic to. However, there are many things you can do to feel better during this time.
Start by avoiding exposure to pollens. Keep your windows closed at home and in the car. Avoid going out when pollen counts are at their highest. Change your clothes when you get home to remove any pollen that may have gotten on your clothing.
A mask can help protect you from inhaling pollens. Pollen trackers can keep you informed about pollen levels in your area.
Identifying what you’re allergic to can help you take targeted steps to avoid your triggers. Dr. Nana Mireku, an allergist in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, recommends getting allergy testing to determine your specific allergens.
Over-the-counter nasal sprays and antihistamines can help relieve allergy symptoms. Nasal sprays can take a while to start working, so it’s best to start using them early in the season. If one antihistamine stops working, you may want to try switching to a different brand.
For severe allergies, immunotherapy is an option. Immunotherapy can help desensitize your immune system to allergens, providing long-term relief.
The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America ranks cities based on their allergy-friendliness. The top five most challenging cities to live in for allergy sufferers are Wichita, Kansas; Virginia Beach, Virginia; Greenville, South Carolina; Dallas; and Oklahoma City.
This year’s allergy season has started earlier and is expected to be longer than usual. Dr. Rachna Shah, an allergist and director of the Loyola Medicine Allergy Count, has observed higher pollen levels than normal. She attributes this to the mild winter and predicts that the season will be longer than average.
Climate change is contributing to longer and more intense allergy seasons. Taking steps to manage your allergies can help you enjoy the outdoors and minimize the misery caused by allergies.
