If you have allergies or asthma, spring and summer can be a tough time of the year. As spring and summer approach us, temperature and humidity changes as well as high pollen counts will be in the air! There are three ways to treat seasonal allergies, environmental control, medication, and immunotherapy. It is important to speak to your healthcare provider about treatment options if you suffer from seasonal allergies.

Along with healthcare treatments, you can control the source of the allergens by simply following some of these helpful tips:

Keep pollen under control by washing your bedding every week in hot water. Before getting into bed at night, shower and wash your hair to wash away allergens in your hair.

Go natural and try using a saline nasal spray to cleanse and clear your sinuses.

Seasonal allergies are brutal on the body’s ability to stay hydrated. Drinking a lot of water to flush your system will promote the elimination of unwanted toxins in your system.

Clean all of the surfaces in your home. Wear a mask and gloves when cleaning, vacuuming, or painting to limit dust and chemical exposure.

In addition to cleaning all the surfaces in your home, it is important to clean damp areas such as your bath tub and shower stalls to avoid the growth of mold.

Shake out and wash your throw rugs. Throw rugs can hold a lot of allergens from pet, dust, etc. To reduce dust and mold build up, give them a good shake at least twice a week and throw them in the wash at least once a week.

Keep the air in your home clean. Keep windows closed to reduce pollen from entering the house. Change the filters in you air conditioning units and vents frequently during this time of year.

If you suffer from seasonal allergies, talk to your doctor today. Don’t your seasonal allergies keep you away from the beautiful weather!

Written by: Amanda Haase