Allergies are triggered when the body creates an immune response to foreign proteins that it deems dangerous. These may be anything from grass, dander, plants, dust mites, to flower pollen, and can turn fun days outdoors into fits of sneezing, coughing, and runny noses. If you’re looking for ways to protect yourself from allergic reactions, ask your doctor for medications and take some steps to reduce your exposure to your triggers. Here are some tips for preventing these reactions.

5 Ways To Reduce Allergic Reactions This Spring

1. Schedule Time Outdoors

Keep up with your local pollen forecast online or on TV to schedule time outdoors when the count is lower. Pollen counts from grass and plants are typically the highest between 5:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m., increasing the chances your allergies will be triggered. Stay indoors as much as possible on dry, windy days, when more allergens are stirred up, and enjoy time outside after rainfall, which clears the air.

2. Shower After Being Outside

Pollen sticks to your clothes when you’re outdoors, so remove your clothing when you return home to prevent transferring these particles to your furniture or upholstery. Take a shower to remove allergens from your skin and hair, then hang your clothes indoors instead of on outdoor lines. If have to do backyard chores that stir up pollen, such as pulling ragweed or mowing the lawn, wear a dust mask.

3. Close Windows & Doors

Keep the doors and windows to your home closed to prevent pollen from floating inside and coating your furniture, floors, and decor. Instead, use air conditioning with a high-efficiency filter to trap pollen and other particles while cooling your space. If your allergies are severe, your doctor may also recommend adding a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter to your bedroom.

4. Clean Your Home

Improve your indoor air quality by vacuuming daily to remove pollen from carpets and rugs. Dust and pet dander can also accumulate in ducts and HVAC filters, spreading particles around your home, so schedule regular cleanings of your HVAC units. If you’re tidying up yourself, wear a dust mask to keep from inhaling these allergens, and consider removing old carpet in favor of hypoallergenic hardwood floors to minimize maintenance.

5. Take Medication

Over-the-counter or prescription drugs, such as nasal sprays and decongestants, can also help prevent and control allergy symptoms. Follow the dosage instructions on the medication and discuss other options  with your provider.

Find relief from seasonal allergies with the doctors at Mayer Clinic. Since 2006, Drs. John and Natalie Mayer have provided patients throughout the Fairbanks, AK area with a full suite of health services, including primary care, family medicine, women’s health, and surgical procedures. Learn more about what they do on their website, or call (907) 457-5050 to make an appointment.