7 Tips for High Pollen Season

With high pollen season times quickly approaching, those of us with allergies need to be prepared. While some individuals get a lot of help from allergy shots and antihistamines, these, unfortunately, aren't a fit for all of us. Even if they are, they may not be enough to stop allergy symptoms completely, so there are some important tips and tricks to keep in mind to control pollen allergies.

How to better control pollen allergies

At the very least, the following ideas can hopefully help you reduce those annoying symptoms, like runny nose, sneezing, coughing, itchy eyes, etc., caused by pollen and other seasonal allergens. These tips mix behavioral remedies, medications, and nasal irrigation.

1. Shower before bed

Showering when you get home or before you go to bed if you go outside during high pollen season can be extremely helpful. Pollen travels through the air quickly and can stick to your hair, clothes, and skin.

2. Wear sunglasses and a hat outside

It's good to cover up if you have to get out during high pollen times. Wearing a hat will minimize the amount of pollen that may settle into your hair. Sunglasses will prevent pollen from getting into your eyes. I know this one helps me immensely, and I personally can't leave my house without my hat and sunglasses!

3. Use a weather or allergy app on your phone

With the ongoing acceleration of technology, we have everything at our fingertips. You can check your weather app or even download a pollen tracking app. This helps you see what days and times pollen counts are highest so you can (hopefully) plan your outdoor activities around those times and minimize pollen exposure.

4. Try taking allergy medication

I feel like this kind of goes without saying. But if you do take medication, make sure you take it before going outside! Don't wait for symptoms to start. However, make sure to speak with your doctor before starting or trying any new medications. We are all different, and different drugs affect us all differently.

5. Stay inside on windy days

If you can avoid going outside, try to stay inside when the wind is extra high. More wind equals more pollen too. This is obviously not always doable, in which case you can make sure to cover up or even grab an umbrella! It might sound silly – but well worth it if it helps.

6. Avoid opening windows in your car or house

Avoiding opening your windows during this time can help reduce pollen exposure. This way, you will limit the amount of pollen inside your house or car. If you have the means and need it, it's always best to run your air conditioner and have a High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter in your home.

7. Use a saline solution nasal spray

Rinsing out the sinuses helps flush out both mucus and allergens, like pollen, from your nose. A saline solution nasal spray can also help relieve congestion. It's also pretty quick and inexpensive. Squeeze bottle nasal sprays or even a neti pot is perfect for this. I find this extremely helpful personally and always have it on hand – just in case!

Taking precaution is necessary and worth it

While taking all these extra steps can be exhausting and time-consuming, I think it is well worth it in the long run. It can both help us avoid pollen and lessen symptoms during spring allergy season.

In my experience, it's always best to be prepared. I'd rather know what I am getting myself into during these times. And I'd certainly rather take some extra steps to keep myself safe than risk my health and suffer from even more symptoms. So, at the end of the day, a little can go a long way!