10 Tips To Relieve Allergic Rhinitis or "Spring Fever"

Filed in archive Hay Fever , Living with Allergies on April 12, 2006

Are you one of the thousands who sneeze, wheeze and suffer every spring? Here are 10 tips from the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology to help relieve soem of your allergy symptoms:

1. Do a thorough spring cleaning. Pay special attention to those nooks and crannies where dust and molds may have accumulated.

2. Minimize outdoor activity when pollen counts peak, usually are between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Check the National Allergy Bureau for up-to-date pollen information for your area.

3. Take medications at least 30 minutes prior to going outdoors.

4. Close your windows especially when pollen counts are high, and avoid using windows or fans that may draw pollen inside.

5. Wash bedding weekly in hot water.

6. Dry laundry indoors to protect them from pollen.

7. Shower and wash your hair before going to bed to wash away pollen that may have been deposited on your hair and skin.

8. Keep pets off of furniture and out of the bedroom. Pollen can cling your pet's fur.

9. Keep car windows closed as well during peak season. If you must use air conditioning, make sure the vents are directed away from you.

10. If you need to do the garden, wear a filter mask.

More tips on managing seasonal allergies and dealing with outdoor allergens from the AAAAI.