Spring Showers Brings May Flowers… and a Whole Lot of Allergens

For many, springtime is a welcome season that boasts warmer temperatures and beautiful surroundings as trees and plants come back to life from their hibernation.

For the millions of allergy sufferers in the United States, however, springtime can be a time of the year they dread.

Oklahoma has been ranked one of the worst states in the country for seasonal allergies. Keep these tips in mind to reduce your allergy symptoms.

Tips to Reduce Allergy Symptoms

• Get an allergy test to determine what may be causing your seasonal allergies. Once you know what may be triggering your symptoms, you can create a plan for avoiding those triggers and treating your allergies.
• Check the weather reports to learn about mold and pollen counts in your area. On days when the count is high, consider doing more things indoors.
• Limit exposure to allergens inside your home with these tips from the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America:
  • If impacted by mold spores, make sure to reduce the moisture in your home. Keep surfaces clean and dry, run your air conditioner when the weather is warm to reduce humidity and do not have too many indoor plants.
  • If pet dander is what’s bothering you (and you have a pet), make sure to keep pets off of furniture and out of your bedroom; cover vents with cheesecloth to avoid the spread of pet dander; regularly wash your pet’s bed and toys; and brush and bathe your pet often and wear a mask while doing it.
  • Use plastic or zippered allergen-resistant covers on mattresses, box springs and pillows to reduce allergy symptoms by controlling your contact with dust mites. Wash bedding, stuffed animals, stuffed toys and uncovered pillows in hot water (over 130 degrees) and dry on a hot cycle once a week.
  • Clean often and vacuum at least once or twice a week to control dust mites.
• Keep doors and windows closed. This will prevent pollen from getting into your house. Change air filters often to reduce the spread of dust mites.
• Take precautions when working or playing outside, especially during times when mold or pollen counts are high. If you’ve been outside, make sure to take a shower, wash your hair, and wear clean clothes to avoid breathing in the allergens. Consider wearing an N-95 mask when doing yard work.