Buzz
Spring allergy season is worsening annually, and it's not just in your head—climate change is the culprit. Research shows that pollen seasons now begin 20 days earlier and extend 10 days longer compared to 1990, with pollen levels also increasing. If you've been gritting your teeth through each spring, it might be time to rethink your strategy and take proactive steps.
Begin with the simplest steps
If you've been brushing off your allergies, hoping they'll fade quickly, consider implementing a few minor adjustments. (Seasoned allergy sufferers likely have these habits down already.)
Pollen originates outdoors, so it's crucial to prevent it from entering your home. On pleasant spring days, resist the urge to open windows; instead, keep them shut and use your home's ventilation system to regulate temperature. Ensure your system's air filter is replaced with a new one boasting a high MERV rating—check out our guide on selecting and replacing air filters for more details. In your car, use the recirculate button to block outdoor air.
Pollen doesn't just travel through the air—it can also hitch a ride into your home on clothing, shoes, hair, and pet fur. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America suggests the following measures:
Remove your shoes upon entering the house.
Change and launder your clothes after spending time outdoors.
Shower and wash your hair before going to bed.
Wipe down pets with a towel when they come inside.
Wash your bedding weekly.
Monitor pollen levels closely
To stay informed about peak pollen times, visit resources like pollen.com or consult your local weather forecast.
Pollen levels peak during early mornings and around dusk. If you need to be outside during these times, wearing sunglasses or a mask (N95 masks are particularly effective at filtering pollen) can help minimize exposure.
If you're planning to relocate or travel during pollen season, consult the Asthma and Allergy Foundation’s list of “allergy capitals” to identify areas with the highest pollen levels and limited access to allergy specialists. Cities like Wichita, KS; Virginia Beach, VA; Greenville, SC; and Dallas, TX rank at the top. In previous years, the rankings also highlighted the best cities for seasonal allergy sufferers, with Fresno, CA; Phoenix, AZ; and Provo, UT leading the pack.
Inside your home
Once you've tackled the basics, consider more significant changes. Carpets, for instance, can accumulate pollen and other allergens like dust and dust mites. If allergies are a persistent issue, replacing carpets with hardwood or smooth flooring might be a worthwhile solution.
Maintaining a regular cleaning routine is essential. Vacuum frequently, preferably with a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter to capture fine particles. Eliminate items that are difficult to clean and establish a consistent cleaning schedule to ensure nothing is overlooked.
Pillow and mattress allergy covers are designed to block dust mite allergens from infiltrating areas that are hard to clean. If dust allergies affect you, invest in these protective covers and ensure you regularly wash bedding, curtains, pillows, and other fabrics. (While dust mites aren't seasonal like pollen, having both allergies can compound your discomfort.)
Think about adding an air purifier to your home. These devices remove allergens from the air, and many people report a noticeable reduction in symptoms.
Consulting your doctor
Over-the-counter remedies like Claritin can alleviate allergy symptoms, but if they aren't providing sufficient relief, it might be time to seek professional advice. An allergist can recommend alternative medications or treatments tailored to your needs, especially if you also have asthma alongside allergies.
If you've been assuming you're allergic to 'something' without specifics, an allergy test can pinpoint your exact triggers. For instance, you might need to focus more on mold than plant pollens. The clearer your understanding, the more precise your allergy management strategy can be.
