9 Tips for Reducing Pollen Exposure

Grab your tissues—spring is here. Unfortunately, for many allergy sufferers, spring is one of the most challenging times of the year. The blooming trees and flowers that lend beauty to the season are also the bearers of pollen—a major trigger for many people with allergies.

But you don’t have to hide away this spring. You just need to learn how to minimize your exposure to pollen. Here are a few tips:

1. If you take medicine for your allergies, be sure to take it as directed. Or talk with your doctor about how to take it so that it’s most effective.
    
2. Shut your windows on the days when the pollen count is high.
    
3. Keep car windows closed during peak pollen season. Use your air conditioner instead.
    
4. On days with a high pollen count, try to stay indoors during the peak pollen times, usually from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
    
5. Wash all your bedding in hot water at least once a week.
    
6. Shower before bedtime to remove any pollen that’s collected on you during the day.
    
7. Keep pets off your bed. Pollen can cling to their fur.
    
8. Do some spring cleaning. Dust left over from the winter months can make allergies worse.
    
9. Wear a filter mask when mowing your lawn or raking leaves.
    

Visit the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology’s website at http://www.aaaai.org/patients.stm for more information about dealing with allergies.