No matter where you live in the world, springtime brings on a new onslaught of allergies for all who suffer from them. Allergies are disruptive at any age, but they can be even more severe as you age into older adulthood. This year, know how to fight springtime allergies so you can enjoy the season to the best of your ability.
Determine your allergens
Despite having suffered from springtime allergies for years, many individuals don’t even know what it is that causes them. Taking over-the-counter medicine might help you manage your symptoms, but something you would do to treat a flower allergy is not the same thing you would do to treat a pet dander allergy.
The best thing you can do is identify your allergen. Get a referral to an allergist from your doctor so they can start the process. Once they have completed your tests, you can take steps to reduce your exposure to these triggers.
Monitor the pollen counts
Did you know that your allergies can worsen not only because of the time of year, but because of the weather itself? Windy conditions increase the pollen in the air, and the rain helps lower it. There are factors that can impact it even beyond that.
Thankfully, your local weather service already monitors the pollen counts. When you check the weather in the morning, make sure you also take a look at this figure. If pollen counts are higher, you will want to keep the windows closed and avoid spending any excess time outdoors. Wait until counts are lower to engage in outdoor activities.
Do research on air purifiers
Even if you do everything right to avoid contact with your allergens, you may still experience serious symptoms at certain times of the year. When that occurs, it may be time to consider purchasing an air purifier. These devices plug into your wall and trap any potential allergens in their filter, literally helping you breathe easier.
Unless you are able to buy more than one air purifier, you should leave it in the room you spend much time in throughout the day so you don’t have to worry about moving it around. If your allergies act up most at night, leave it in your bedroom.
Stay as clean as possible
Just as you can fight off a cold by washing your hands, you can do the same with allergies. Maintain your personal hygiene by regularly bathing and washing your hands, which cleans your body of germs. You should also avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth, as those are the regions that transport allergens into your body most easily.
You could also consider buying hypoallergenic products to help reduce the allergens in your home. Cleaning supplies, hand soap, and even items like bedding can be hypoallergenic.
Ask your doctor about potential medications
If all else fails, speak with your doctor about what allergy medication could be right for you. Over-the-counter medication is obviously an option, but it is important to ask your doctor about the best option for you and your health, as you may be taking medication that could react poorly with it.
Thankfully, there are many different options for antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal steroids, all of which relieve symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and runny nose. Neti pots and saline nasal sprays offer relief by rinsing out sinuses. For those with severe symptoms, you could even try allergy shots which are designed to help your body slowly get used to allergies.
Take care of your immunity
Taking care of your immune system may also help you fight your springtime allergies. Eat a diet rich in vitamins and nutrients, get regular exercise, and try to keep your stress levels low. These elements impact every aspect of your daily life, so practice these health habits not only for your immune system, but for your overall health!
Direct care workers help you stay healthy at home
Fighting off your allergy symptoms is easier with the support of a direct care worker. These professionals assist with all the non-medical activities of daily living that seniors need to live happily and healthfully at home. Whether you need assistance cooking well-balanced meals or need someone to pick up your allergy medicine from the pharmacy, they will always be there to lend a helping hand.
For more on how you might benefit from the support of a direct care worker, give us a call at (623) 526-6367.
