Coping With Seasonal Allergies

Summer is just around the corner and with it comes warmer weather, more outdoor activities and more allergens in the form of pollens and molds. If you are one of an estimated 36 million Americans who suffer from seasonal allergic rhinitis - more popularly known as hay fever - summer may be a time of year you dread. This year's allergies season promises to be even worse in some parts of the country because of the higher than usual level of rainfall this past winter and spring. Unfortunately there is no way to control the weather, but there are various things that allergy sufferers can do to help lessen the symptoms of allergies that include itchy, watery eyes, runny nose and non-stop sneezing. Current medications used to treat these symptoms usually contain antihistamines that can cause drowsiness and dizziness that can be especially dangerous for seniors. They may also be taking other medications that can cause very dangerous interactions or reactions. Research is being done for treatments for allergies that will help to prevent the allergic reaction in the first place rather than focusing on treating the symptoms. Allergy specialists expect that this is the future of allergy treatment. Unfortunately these new treatments will not be available for several years. In the meantime there are steps that can be taken to help lessen your exposure to allergens and be more comfortable this allergy season. The following tips are offered by the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology:

1. Avoid allergens and molds as much as possible. Instead of walking outside in the park or on hiking trails, try walking in the local shopping mall. Most malls have walking clubs with mall businesses offering discounts. It will be much cooler too!
2. When you have to go outside try to avoid grassy areas (especially those areas with fresh mown grass) or areas with lots of foliage.
3. Keep windows closed at night to prevent pollens or molds from drifting into your home.
4. Use and air conditioner and dehumidifier to keep air clean, cool and dry.
5. Keep car windows closed while traveling.
6. Be aware of local pollen counts and avoid outdoor activity on days when it is high. To find out the pollen count for your are, visit the NAB Web site .
7. If you live in an area that has high smog levels, be aware of those levels and take appropriate measures on high smog days such as staying indoors or limiting activity.
8. Plan your vacation at the beach rather than the mountains, pollen counts are much lower at the beach near the ocean.
9. If you must mow or rake - activities that stir up a lot of pollen and mold - wear a paper respiratory mask to lower your exposure.
10. Even though "line-dried" clothing and linens have a wonderful "fresh" scent, use the dryer, as pollens and mold can collect on items drying on the clothesline.
11. Take medications as prescribed in the recommended dosage. Even if your symptoms are severe, stick with the recommended amounts of medication.
12. Shower after being outdoors to remove any pollen and mold that may be left clinging to your skin and hair.

Updated 05/02/06

Sources: American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology