Many people suffer from seasonal allergies, also known as hay fever or seasonal allergic rhinitis. According to 2015 data from the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), this condition impacts 8.4% of kids and 8.2% of adults.
How can you best approach the allergy season in Atlanta, where a large number of trees and warm climate can exacerbate symptoms? Several strategies can help you maintain your quality of life year-round, ranging from decontamination to tapping the expertise of an Atlanta allergy clinic.
Shower and Change Clothes After Pollen Exposure
Just like a person needs an airlock when in outer space to safeguard the internal environment, anyone who suffers from seasonal allergies needs an airlock to protect the atmosphere of the home. Sharecare head of clinical strategy Darria Long Gillespie used the spacecraft analogy to underscore the importance of decontamination following a period of pollen exposure (i.e., being outside). As Gillespie indicated, “change your clothes and take a shower to rinse pollen out of your hair and off your skin.”
Adjust Your Schedule
Pollen counts typically peak in the first few hours of the day so if you can, try not to spend a lot of time outside early in the day. If you have to spend time outside doing something such as mowing the grass or if you want to go for a run, the early evening would be the best time to avoid high pollen counts.
Use a Well-Maintained AC Unit
Rather than opening your windows at home or in your car, use the recycle setting on your air conditioner. Changing your air filters regularly is also important.
Make Sure Your Pet Is Not Exposing You to Pollen
If you have bad allergies, it is generally recommended that you keep your pets out of your bedroom because of their dander, and if they spend time outside they could be exposing you to more pollen. Wiping down your pet with a wet cloth when it comes inside can help get rid of some of the pollen so you’re not being exposed to it inside the house.
Check Your Home for Mold
Similar to pollen, mold can exacerbate your condition and make seasonal allergy symptoms worse. Use water and detergent to remove mold from hard surfaces. Wash fabrics with soap and water.
Keep Track of the Pollen and Mold Levels
During allergy season, go to weather websites and see what the readings are. An alternative is to get a weather app for your smartphone that includes pollen and mold levels. Either way, check these levels daily.
Get Help From an Atlanta Allergy Clinic
Are you suffering from hay fever? Beyond the strategies listed above, you may also benefit from the expertise of healthcare professionals through an Atlanta allergy clinic. At Atlanta Medical Clinic, we employ trusted physicians who have years of experience diagnosing and treating patients like you. Contact us today!