Spring may bring blooming flowers and warm breezes, but for allergy sufferers, it’s also the season of sneezing, itchy eyes, and relentless congestion. If you have pets, they can track pollen inside, making symptoms even worse. Managing allergies isn’t just about getting through the season—it’s about enjoying it without feeling miserable.
Even if you don’t have pets, allergy season can turn everyday life into a struggle. The good news? With a few simple adjustments, you can reduce your exposure to allergens and keep your symptoms under control. Here’s how to survive the season and breathe a little easier.
Start Medications Early
Don’t wait until symptoms hit—start taking antihistamines or allergy medications a couple of weeks before peak season. This helps your body build resistance and prevents allergies from taking over. Talk to your doctor about the best options for you, whether it’s daily pills, nasal sprays, or allergy shots.
Keep Windows Closed
As tempting as it is to let in the fresh air, open windows allow pollen to flood your home. Keep them shut during peak pollen hours, especially in the morning and evening. Use an air purifier to keep indoor air clean and reduce allergens floating around your space.
Wash Your Face and Hair Before Bed
Pollen sticks to your skin and hair throughout the day, making nighttime allergies worse. A quick rinse before bed can keep allergens off your pillow and out of your nose. If you have long hair, consider tying it back or washing it more frequently during allergy season.
Wipe Down Your Pets
Pets may not suffer from pollen allergies like you do, but they can carry allergens inside on their fur. Give them a gentle wipe-down with a damp cloth or pet-safe wipes when they come in from outside. This simple step can help cut down on the allergens spreading around your home.
Change Your Clothes After Going Outside
Pollen clings to fabric, so if you’ve been outside for a while, change your clothes when you come back in. This is especially important if you’ve been doing yard work or walking through grassy areas. Keep a designated spot for outdoor clothes to avoid spreading allergens through your home.
Use a HEPA Filter
High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters can trap allergens like pollen, dust, and pet dander. Use one in your bedroom or main living area to keep the air cleaner. If you have central air, make sure to change your HVAC filter regularly and consider upgrading to a HEPA-rated filter.
Avoid Outdoor Activities in the Morning
Pollen levels are highest in the early morning, so try to schedule outdoor activities for later in the day. If you must be outside, wear sunglasses to protect your eyes and consider a face mask to reduce pollen inhalation. Checking daily pollen forecasts can help you plan accordingly.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water helps thin mucus and keep your sinuses clear. Herbal teas, broths, and warm fluids can also soothe irritated airways. Staying hydrated is a simple yet effective way to ease allergy symptoms and keep congestion at bay.
Use a Saline Rinse
A saline rinse can flush out allergens from your nasal passages, providing quick relief. Whether you use a neti pot or a simple saline spray, regular rinsing can help reduce congestion and irritation. Just be sure to use sterile, distilled, or pre-boiled water to avoid infections.
Related: 11 Best Hypoallergenic Cats
Keep Bedding Allergen-Free
Pollen and dust mites can settle in your bedding, making allergy symptoms worse at night. Wash your sheets, pillowcases, and blankets weekly in hot water to kill allergens. Consider using hypoallergenic covers for pillows and mattresses to create an extra barrier against irritants.
Related: How to Reduce Cat Allergens in Your Home
