4 Simple Ways to Minimize Seasonal Allergies Immediately
Spring, Summer, and Fall can be miserable times for those who suffer from seasonal allergies.
When you should be outside enjoying the weather and outdoor activities, instead you feel congested, your eyes are watering, and you are wondering when you will feel relief.
There are some long-term solutions for these problems, such as allergy shots, but if you only suffer allergies one season out of the year it may not be a good solution for you. Additionally, this sort of treatment takes time.
Whether you decide to pursue a long-term solution or not, there are some simple ways to minimize seasonal allergies immediately.
1) Close your Windows
If you are suffering from seasonal allergies the simplest thing you can do is close your windows. This might mean running the air conditioner (or heat) more often than you would like, but it’s something you should absolutely do if you are suffering.
The problem with open windows is this: allergens blow into your house and then settle in. That nice breeze that some people enjoy at night is actually bringing in a whole bunch of allergens that are going to be on your pillows, bed, floor, etc.
2) Run the Air Conditioning when you Drive
Similar to closing your windows at home, you should also close your windows when you’re driving. Same logic: allergens are going to blow into your car and settle in. Keeping your windows down and using your air conditioner will help keep the allergens out and the air clean.
3) Get an Air Purifier
Air Purifiers are essential to keeping your home clear of allergens. Air purifiers circulate the air in your home and in the process run it through their filtration systems
There are countless air purifiers available for purchase. An affordable option from Allergy Buyer’s Club is the Germ Guardian AC5000 UVC and HEPA Air Purifier. They have some that are arguably better, but they can run in the hundreds of dollars. Walmart has some affordable options as well, such as the Honeywell HEPAClean Tower Air Purifier HHT-081.
4) Take an Antihistamine (with a decongestant)
Most who suffer from allergies already take an antihistamine, but if you don’t I would highly recommend starting. Claritin, Allegra, and Zyrtec are all good options.
One thing to consider is whether your anithistamine has a decongestant in it (i.e. ClaritinD, AllegraD, etc.). If your seasonal allergies are causing you to have sinus congestion, consider getting an antihistamine with a decongestant to help relieve some of your sinus pressure. This is only available over-the-counter (OTC), because decongestants contain pseudoephedrine, which the government limits usage of.
Photo by taylor n.