With the upcoming change in seasons, allergies are a huge concern for millions of people. As many as 50 million of us are affected by allergies. For those who are affected by an allergy called Hay Fever, fear not! There are several steps you can take to help reduce the symptoms.
What is Hay Fever?
Hay fever, otherwise known as allergic rhinitis, develops when the body’s immune system overreacts to something in the environment that typically causes no problem for most people. When dealing with hay fever, you may experience multiple symptoms including:
- Runny Nose
- Itchy eyes, mouth or skin
- Sneezing
- Stuffy nose
- Fatigue
What causes Hay Fever?
Hay fever can be triggered by various irritants:
- Outdoor Allergens – pollen from grass, trees and weeds
- Indoor Allergens – Pet hair, dander, dust mites and mold
- Irritants – Cigarette smoke, perfume and diesel exhaust
What can I do to manage my allergies?
There are multiple steps you can take to reduce your allergy symptoms. However, first and foremost, it’s important to pinpoint what you may be allergic to. Simple things like fragrance, or cigarette smoke are much easier to avoid than pollen. Additional measures that lower your chances of having an allergic reaction include:
- Keeping windows closed during high pollen periods (spring, summer, and early fall)
- Wearing glasses / sunglasses when outdoors to keep pollen away from your eyes
- Using “mite-proof” bedding covers to limit exposure to dust mites and a dehumidifier to control mold
There are also certain medicines you can take to offer some relief. Some of the top allergy medicines are:
Even though allergies are impossible to prevent, they don’t have to control your life. Taking additional steps can make managing your symptoms simple. Don’t let allergies bring you down; go out and explore!