Spring is here which means allergy season is also here! Pollen counts start to rise and for many, this means the return of sneezing, itchy eyes and runny noses. Whether you’re sensitive to tree pollen, grass or weeds, allergies can significantly affect your quality of life. But with a little preparation and proactive care, you can manage your symptoms and enjoy the season without constant discomfort.
The first step in managing allergies is understanding what triggers your symptoms. Most people are allergic to pollen from trees, grasses and weeds, but the specific allergens may vary depending on the time of year and your location. Knowing which type of pollen affects you most can help you plan your activities and manage your exposure.
Managing Allergy Tip: Keep track of pollen levels in your area using pollen forecasts. Apps like BBC Weather or Met Office that offer daily updates on pollen counts, so you can stay ahead of allergy season.
The best way to manage allergies is to avoid exposure to allergens whenever possible. During peak pollen seasons, it’s helpful to stay indoors when pollen counts are at their highest, usually in the early morning hours. If you must go outside, try to limit your time outdoors and avoid areas with heavy vegetation or blooming flowers.
Managing Allergy Tip: After being outdoors, change clothes and shower to remove pollen from your skin and hair. Keep windows closed at home, and use air conditioning if needed to filter out allergens.
If you find yourself battling allergy symptoms, over-the-counter antihistamines, nasal decongestants and eye drops can provide relief. For more persistent symptoms, consider consulting a healthcare provider for stronger prescription options or allergy shots (immunotherapy).
Managing Allergy Tip: Take your medication before symptoms start to see the best results. If you’re unsure which treatment is right for you, consider talking to a healthcare professional, you can book with one of our doctors or scheduling an allergy test through services like our Insights Health Check, which offers comprehensive testing to help identify specific allergens.
Pollen can sneak into your home, making it difficult to escape. Regular cleaning is key to keeping allergens at bay. Wash bedding, curtains and rugs frequently and vacuum using a HEPA filter to capture airborne particles. Air purifiers with HEPA filters can help reduce indoor allergens, providing a cleaner environment for you to relax in.
Managing Allergy Tip: Try using a dehumidifier to control moisture levels indoors. High humidity can worsen allergy symptoms by promoting mould growth, another common allergen.
By staying proactive about managing your spring allergies, you can reduce symptoms and enjoy the blooming season with minimal discomfort.
If you would like to speak to one of our GP’s about allergies you can book an appointment below:
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