9 Ways to Tame Spring Allergies

Stop the sneezes! Spring is here, no question about it. The colder than usual temps haven’t kept my spring allergies from driving me nuts already. I’ve heard that allergy triggers are going to be worse than ever for sufferers this year. And believe it or not, the polar vortex is to blame.

Although trees are dormant during the winter, they absorb all of the snow, ice, and rain that Mother Nature dumps on them. Since snow amounts this year broke records across the country, trees had plenty to absorb. And now they’re waking up ready to bloom — and release all of that pollen they’ve produced.

There’s nothing you can do to stop allergens from being released. But here’s a list of things you can do to tame your allergic reactions:

1.   Clean your whole house — from the bookshelves to the air conditioning vents — and get rid of all of the dust that’s accumulated over the winter. Wear a mask if dust is one of your allergy triggers.

2.   Remove or wipe your shoes before entering your house. Eighty-five percent of dirt in homes comes in on shoes or paws. And that dirt has a whole lot of pollen mixed in with it.

3.   Stay indoors when pollen counts are high. Counts usually peak between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

4.   Keep the windows in your house and car closed.

5.   Pollen clings to fur, so don’t let your pet lounge around on your furniture.

6.   Replace or clean your air filters.

7.   Run your A/C to reduce humidity and discourage bacteria and mold growth.

8.   Use a neti pot to reduce sinus drainage and congestion.

9.   Wash your bedding, clothes, and pajamas in hot water to wash away any allergens.