Top Ways to Cope With Spring Allergies

Spring has sprung, and the beautiful trees and flowers are now in bloom. For most, it’s the best time of the year to get out and enjoy the nice weather, but for those with allergy symptoms, that warm weather can come with some unpleasant symptoms. To minimize allergy symptoms, here’s what you can do:

Find The Source

The first way to keep allergies from taking over your life—and to be sure they are allergies and nothing more--is to keep an eye out for frequent occurrences. Try to identify what causes your symptoms, and if you notice that you are experiencing yearly symptoms that linger, you might want to speak to an allergist or consider over-the-counter medication.

Avoid Triggers

Once you know what causes your allergy symptoms, try to avoid these triggers as much as possible. For instance, if you believe that pollen might be to blame, make sure you check pollen counts, and limit outdoor activities on days when the count is higher or on windy days, when the pollen is kicking around more.

Ditch The Habit

One of the most significant contributors to an increase in allergy symptoms is cigarette smoke. Whether you’re a smoker or live with one, the inhaled smoke can worsen your allergy symptoms and irritate your nasal passages and respiratory tract. The best way to avoid this? Quit or encourage your loved ones to do the same. Not only will your allergy symptoms improve but also you’ll lengthen your lifespan and lessen your chance of a heart attack or stroke.

Spring Clean

Now is the season that you’re dragging outdoor allergens into your home, causing symptoms to last longer. Whether they are dragged in on your shoes, coats or your favorite pet, extra cleaning can help reduce allergens. Take off shoes at the door, vacuum more often, and keep windows closed when possible.

Consider Medication

There are several over-the-counter medications that can help you get through spring, but they aren’t always a guarantee. If you have tried all allergy medications and are still suffering from symptoms, it might be time to talk to your doctor about seeing an allergist or ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist.

From ENTs to primary care physicians, Southwest General Medical Group, Inc. can work closely with you to ensure you are always feeling your best all year! To learn more about our services or schedule appointment, visit our website.