Fighting Springtime Allergies

Spring is a beautiful time of year, but it can be difficult for those who suffer from seasonal allergies. If you’re an older adult, you may find your allergy symptoms are more severe and disruptive to your daily life than they used to be.

Though the process is completely different from fending off a cold, fighting springtime allergies is entirely possible. Following these steps can help you ensure that you enjoy the season to its fullest.

Identify your allergens

Many people know that come springtime their allergies act up, but they aren’t sure exactly what causes these allergies. Knowing what it is that triggers your allergies can inform how you go about treating them. You wouldn’t do the same thing to avoid tree pollen that you would to avoid mold spores, after all.

Have your doctor refer you to an allergist so you can take an allergy test. The process is uncomfortable, but it will help determine what exactly it is you’re allergic to so you can take steps to reduce your exposure to these triggers.

Monitor the pollen counts

You know to expect more problems with your allergies this time of year, but did you know certain weeks could be worse than others? This is due to the pollen count in the air, which your local weather service already monitors.

Keeping an eye on the pollen count allows you to determine how you move about your day. If pollen is high, you may not want to hang laundry outside or leave your windows open. When the levels are lower you’ll be more comfortable partaking in whatever outdoor activities you enjoy.

Consider purchasing an air purifier

During your spring cleaning session, you should have replaced your air filters. This will certainly make a difference in your allergy symptoms, but if you are still struggling with them you should consider purchasing an air purifier. These devices trap pollen and other allergens in a filter so they don’t circulate through your home.

Leave your air filter in whatever room you use the most often throughout the day so you don’t have to worry about moving it from place to place. Alternatively, the bedroom is a great place for an air purifier so you get better sleep.

Maintain your hygiene

Just as proper hygiene keeps you safe from germs, it also keeps you safe from allergens. Regularly showering and washing your hands helps keeps you clean of irritants. Between washes, avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth, as those are the places that are most susceptible to allergens.

Hypoallergenic products—from bedding to cleaning products—can also help reduce the amount of allergens in your home.

Talk to your doctor about allergy medications

If you suffer from spring allergies, you may also want to consider talking to your doctor about taking medication. Antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal steroids can help relieve the symptoms of allergies, such as sneezing, itching, and a runny nose. Discuss whether or not over-the-counter medications can fight your symptoms, or if you need prescription medications. You could even ask about allergy shots.

In addition to these options, some people find relief from using saline nasal sprays or a neti pot to rinse out their sinuses. This option can be utilized as frequently or infrequently as you’d like, as there is no real medication in these options, but it is still a good idea to talk to your doctor before starting it.

Boost your immunity

Taking steps to improve your overall health and boost your immune system can help reduce your allergy symptoms. This may include eating a healthy diet rich in vitamins and nutrients, staying physically active, and reducing stress through activities such as yoga or meditation.

Stay healthy with the help of an at-home caregiver

Whether it’s through lifestyle changes, over-the-counter medications, or a combination of both, it’s important you find a solution to fight your allergies that works for you.

However, navigating these options and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can be difficult on your own, which is where an at-home caregiver can help. With their support, you can focus on staying healthy and feeling your best while enjoying the comfort of your own home.

If you’re interested in learning more about the benefits of having an at-home caregiver, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at 773-274-9262.