Reducing Allergy Symptoms

When the pollen you are allergic to rates moderate-to-high, taking extra precautions to avoid them can reduce symptoms and need for medication.

Here are some tips from the Intermountain Allergy and Asthma Clinic:

• Shower and wash your hair before going to bed and after exercise.

• Most pollen is released between 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Keep outdoor activity to a minimum during that time.

• Use air conditioning in your home and car. Don't open the windows.

• Stay indoors when the pollen count or humidity is high, and on windy days.

• Wear a dust mask and/or swim goggles when mowing the lawn, or find someone else to mow it.

• Avoid irritants such as smoke, perfume, and aerosol sprays.

• Use household cleaners in well-ventilated areas.

• Don't hang laundry out to dry, especially towels and bedding.

• Don't rake leaves (they stir up molds).

• Don't grow too many indoor plants (wet dirt causes molds to grow.)

• One of the most serious symptoms of allergy is asthma. Use asthma medications as prescribed by your doctor to avoid an asthma episode. Don't wait until you're experiencing an asthma attack to take your medications.