I don’t have seasonal allergies (knock on wood), but many of those around me do. They’ve started suffering from itchy, watery eyes and other symptoms. A recent article in The New York Times offers advice that centers on taking action prior to allergy seasons. But, as far as I can tell, the first allergy season has already started—at least here in California and in Arizona. Anyhow, maybe this advice, which comes from allergists, could be helpful next year.
First, you must figure out your personal allergy season when
your symptoms are most intense: tree pollen from late winter to spring; grass
pollen from late spring through summer; and weed pollen from late summer
through fall. This helps you determine when your medications might be most
effective. Internet sites such as Pollen.com might help to find allergy
forecasts.
After you’ve determined your season, the experts say to
start taking your medication—such as Claritin, Zyrtec, and Allegra—about two to
four weeks before your pollen season begins. This helps to block the histamines
in your body from triggering itching, sneezing, and congestion.
To prevent pollen from wafting into your home, keep your
windows closed starting a week or two before allergy season. Maybe even clean
or replace filters on your air conditioner or air purifier and keep outdoor
clothing and shoes away from areas where you spend a lot of time.
The docs also suggest using your inhaler before you go
outside and keeping your skin moisturized to create a protective barrier.
Good luck!
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