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Spring Allergies

An Unwelcome Return: Tips to ease your spring allergy symptoms

With the peak of the spring allergy season fast approaching, millions of Americans are keeping their tissue boxes close by. The budding trees and blooming flowers associated with the early return of spring mark an increase in itchy, watery eyes, sneezing and other allergy symptoms.

Seasonal allergic rhinitis, or "hay fever," affects more than 20 percent of the people living in the United States, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI). Allergies are triggered by substances called allergens, such as pollen or mold spores. Many trees, grasses and weeds contain small and light pollens that are easily carried by the wind, causing allergy symptoms to flare up in the spring.

Allergy sufferers don't have to cope with the symptoms every spring. An allergist/immunologist can offer relief and a plan to control the cycle of symptoms that leads to 14.1 million physician office visits and an overall cost of $6 billion each year.

The following tips can help allergy sufferers find some relief during the peak allergy season:

Do a thorough spring cleaning - windows, book shelves and air conditioning vents collect dust and mold throughout the winter that can provoke allergy symptoms.
Use a new filter in your air purifier. If you run your air purifier constantly, monitor your filter for build up.
Minimize outdoor activity when pollen counts are high. Peak pollen times are usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Get up-to-date pollen information for your area from the National Allergy Bureau at www.aaaai.org/nab.
Take medications at least 30 minutes prior to outdoor activity. Consult with an allergist/immunologist to ensure medications are helping you, and notify an allergist/immunologist when reactions to medications occur.
Shut windows in your house on days pollen counts are high. Avoid using windows or fans that may draw pollen inside.
Wash bedding weekly in hot water.
Dry laundry indoors. Sheets hanging on an outside line are an easy target for blowing pollen.
Shower and wash your hair before bed - pollen can collect on your hair and skin.
Keep pets off of furniture and out of the bedroom. Pollen can cling to the dog or cat after being outside.
Keep car windows closed during peak season. Use air conditioning and point vents away from face.
When mowing lawn or gardening, wear a filter mask.