Some tips for surviving a severe allergy season

Spring has arrived in the U.S., bringing along a slew of seasonal allergies. The 2015 allergy season could be more severe in comparison to previous years.
 
When plants and trees start to bloom, pollen is released into the air, affecting millions of people. The most common seasonal allergy symptom is rhinitis or hay fever, which is triggered by pollen from grasses, trees and weed. About 35 million Americans are affected with hay fever each year. This year, people who are allergic should prepare themselves well for itchy eyes, runny nose and sneezing. The wet winter months are responsible for the arrival of possibly the worst allergy season that people could experience.
 
Here are some tips for surviving a severe allergy season:

• Wear oversized sunglasses to block airborne pollens and molds.
  
• Wear a hat, preferably one with a wide brim.
  
• Avoid outdoor line drying of clothing and bed linens on a high pollen day.
  
• Consider exercising indoors on very high pollen days. Pollen levels may peak during the mid-day and afternoon, and are generally higher on warm, dry, windy days.
  
• Get confirmation that you have seasonal allergies, with simple in-office tests.
  
• Begin treatment with medications such as nasal antihistamines, oral antihistamines, and eye drops even before symptoms start.
  
• Talk to your doctor about allergy shots, which can significantly reduce your sensitivity to these allergic triggers.
  
• Shower and shampoo nightly to rinse pollens from skin and hair. Change clothes before entering your bedrooms to keep pollens out.
  
• At home and in the car, keep the windows closed and set your air conditioner to re-circulate. Clean filters in room air conditioners frequently. Avoid use of fans that can suck outdoor pollens into your living area.
  
• Eliminate weeds from your yard and plant allergy-friendly greenery.