Spring is a beautiful time of year with mild temperatures and blooming flowers. However, for those with allergy difficulties, it is also one of the most challenging times. With all the pollen in the air, it’s common for folks to deal with stuffy noses and a lot of sneezing. Luckily, there are some ways to reduce the amount of allergens that you come in contact with. Here are 4 solutions for those who deal with seasonal allergies:
1. Make In-Home Adjustments
While it’s true that outdoor factors can cause allergy symptoms, there are also some things that you can do to your home to get some relief from the constant sniffling and sneezing. Filtering the air inside your home can eliminate dander, dust, and other allergens from your home. During the spring season, be sure to close all your windows because the wind can carry pollen into your home and it’s nearly impossible to see. It’s also important to keep the air inside your home dry, which can be done using a dehumidifier.
2. Wash Away the Pollen
Since it can be hard to spot pollen, you may be surprised to know how it can stick to your body and your clothes. After being outside, be sure to go inside and change clothes to reduce extended exposure to allergens. Also, it’s a good idea to shower after doing chores outside such as mowing the lawn or gardening. If you go to sleep with the pollen still attached to you, there’s a good chance you will wake up with a runny nose and watery eyes the next morning. On the same note, you should always wash your bedding at least once a week in warm water to keep your sheets and pillows free of allergens.
3. Saline Sprays and Rinses
If you wake up in the morning with severe allergy symptoms, you will try whatever works to get some relief. One of the best ways to deal with seasonal allergies is to rinse out your sinus cavities. Products such as saline nasal sprays and neti pots can be a real lifesaver during spring. Studies have tested the effectiveness of these at-home treatments and found that they can provide major improvements to nasal allergy symptoms.
4. Test Out Allergy Medications
In most cases, over-the-counter allergy medications are a great way to deal with seasonal allergies. You can pick up these products at our pharmacy. Things such as Benadryl, Zyrtec, and Claritin can help give you some extra relief when your allergies are giving you trouble. If you find that these medications aren’t cutting it, visit your primary care doctor who can refer you to an allergist. They will be able to do a simple allergy test to see exactly what is causing the issue, as well as prescribe prescription medications and perform allergy shots if needed.
The main goal of our Michigan pharmacies is to provide assistance to our patients when needed. Check out the full array of services that we provide to the community, including over-the-counter medications for seasonal allergies. We look forward to helping you live a happy and healthy life!
