We are in the midst of fall allergy season, mainly due to high counts of ragweed pollen in the air. With a wet spring and a dry summer, experts are predicting that this year’s allergy season will be worse than normal.
Sneezing, nasal congestion, red puffy eyes, itchy throat and even sleep disruption are all signs of ragweed allergies.
The season usually ends by mid-October. In the meantime, WebMD suggests trying the following to avoid pollen:
- Try to stay indoors when pollen counts are at their highest levels, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- When you are outdoors, be sure to change your clothes when you come back inside. And do not dry clothes outside where they can get dusted with pollen.
- Shower in the evening, removing pollen from your hair and face.
- Keep your windows closed, whether in the car or at home, and keep the air conditioner on. Air conditioners filter the air as well as cool it, but keep your air filters clean and change every 3-4 months.
- You can try nasal irrigation a process of rinsing the nostrils with a salf water solution, using a neti pot or bottle system.
- Try HEPA air filters in your home, especially in the bedrooms.
- Vaccuum often, HEPA vacuum cleaners are best, to remove pollen from your home.
However, avoidance strategies are often not enough. Over the counter antihistamines (like Claritin or Zyrtec) are often needed or a nasal steriod like Singulair. If you or your child is congested an over the counter decongestant can also help. But check with your doctor first if you have high blood pressure.