7 Tips To Beat Spring Allergies

Ah, springtime! After a long winter, there is nothing like feeling a warm breeze and smelling a bright, cheery flower. Unfortunately, all the new growth also brings with it a significant influx of pollen and other allergens. While you're out and about trying to enjoy the sunshine, you may find yourself dealing with excessive sneezing, a runny nose, and watery eyes.

Sound Familiar?

If the above situation sounds like something you've dealt with in the past, you know just how frustrating spring allergies can be. Fortunately, you may not have to resign yourself to months of suffering - there are certain things you can do to help reduce the impact spring allergies have on your life. Central Ozarks Medical Center is here to help you out with these simple (but effective) strategies.

Tips To Beat Spring Allergies

1. Spend Less Time Outside

If you know you are prone to springtime allergies, the best way to reduce your symptoms is to minimize your exposure to the allergens. For many people, this means staying inside during springtime when pollen and other common allergens are most present.

2. Wear Sunglasses

Consider donning a pair of shades while you're out and about. Not only will sunglasses protect your eyes from the sun's harsh ultra-violet rays - they can shield your eyes from some of the pollen that is floating through the air. A hat with a wide brim may also be beneficial.

3. Keep Your Windows Closed

While there's nothing quite as refreshing as the breeze that comes from opening your windows, there's also nothing quite as miserable as dealing with watery eyes and continual sneezes. Pollen can easily fit through the netting in your screens, so opening your windows allows the pollen to enter your home and coat your furniture, countertops, floors, and other surfaces. Keeping your windows closed will reduce the amount of pollen you are exposed to inside your home.

4. Shower After Being Outside

If you do choose to spend time outside, it may be helpful to change your clothes, take a shower, and wash your hair after returning indoors. This way, you'll be less likely to bring the pollen inside with you.

5. Run Your Air Conditioner

When the air in your home cycles through the HVAC system, it is pushed through a filter. This filter can trap pollen and other particles, thus helping to purify the air in your home. Running your system can reduce the number of particles floating in your air and therefore may help keep your allergies in check. Don't forget to change your filter every 1-2 months!

6. Replace The Carpet

If you consistently battle with severe allergies, it may be worthwhile to replace the carpet in your home. Hardwood, tile, vinyl, or linoleum flooring is often preferable for people with allergies, as carpet tends to trap pollen, dust mites, etc. Hard floor surfaces are much easier to keep clean of these pesky allergens.

7. Take Allergy Medicine

There are a variety of over-the-counter medicines designed to help alleviate the symptoms commonly associated with spring allergies. Read the package of your chosen medicine prior to usage, however; certain types may make you drowsy, so it is important to know what to expect from your dosage. If you consistently struggle with allergies, you may want to consider taking non-drowsy medicine even before your symptoms manifest.

COMC Is Here For You!

If you're having trouble overcoming your springtime allergies, consider reaching out to our affordable health clinic in central Missouri. With locations in Camdenton, Osage Beach, and Richland, we are conveniently accessible to patients all across Mid-Missouri. If you would like more information about how we may able to help you minimize the symptoms associated with your allergies, contact Central Ozarks Medical Center.

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