Getting ready for fall allergy season
With autumn comes light jackets, beautiful changing leaves and — of course — pesky seasonal allergies.
Pollen, dust mites and mold are much more active this time of year because of the changing weather. If you aren’t prepared, then you may find yourself staying inside and feeling miserable.
To avoid this happening to you, try our three tips to get ready to avoid your allergies during fall season.
[Related: How to Treat Seasonal Allergies]
Understand Your Allergy Triggers
The most important step you can take to prepare yourself for fall allergies is to understand your triggers.
Once you understand what allergens affect your body, you can modify your habits or find relief from a solution that targets the root cause.
Through a skin prick test or blood test, doctors can help you identify the pollens you’re allergic to. Then, you can monitor pollen counts on any given day through local weather forecasts. Most weather-tracking websites list daily pollen counts, too.
The best way to figure out what exactly is causing you to experience symptoms is to make an appointment with a certified allergist, but don’t wait until autumn is already upon you!
The sooner you know, the better you can prepare for fall allergy season.
Modify Your Habits and Routine
When you know your allergy triggers, you can change your habits to avoid reactions.
Skip the Sunscreen and Stay Inside!
Because many fall allergens are more active during the day, try to avoid being outside for long periods of time.
Pollen counts typically rise in the early morning, peak in the afternoon and decline gradually as night sets in.
If you have to tend to your garden, wear gloves and a mask.
Once you’re inside, don’t leave the clothes you wore outside lying around — wash them in warm water and then put them in the dryer.
[Related: How to Reduce Allergies in the Workplace]
Clean a Little More Than Usual
You may be staying inside more to avoid getting sick, but that doesn’t mean you’re escaping allergens altogether. A big trigger for your allergies during fall season is dust mites.
Dust mites accumulate frequently. With more dust in the air from dying leaves and plant matter, you’ll want to clean your home a bit more often than you normally would.
Try to regularly wash your bedding in warm water. If you have hardwood floors, pay attention to the floor underneath the furniture.
[Related: Holidays and Histamines: Avoiding Common Seasonal Allergen Triggers]
Eat Immune-Boosting Foods
Another way to prepare for fall allergy season is to eat foods that naturally boost your immune system.
Fatty fish like salmon are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which can help lower your risk for allergies.
You can also incorporate probiotics into your diet by eating Greek yogurts.
Ready to Get Lasting Relief From Fall Allergies?
When you try your best to take the necessary precautions but still end up taking a daily antihistamine, it’s time to speak with an allergy specialist.
Dr. Matorin believes that together, patients and doctors can find lasting solutions to allergy symptoms.
Schedule an appointment today so you never have to dread fall again.
Featured image via Pixabay
