7 ways to prepare for the allergy season, experts say



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Spring has officially arrived. The days warm up quickly, the trees become greener and the sadness of winter begins to rise. However, on an unpleasant note, the arrival of spring also means that the allergy season will soon be in full bloom (pun intended totally). You may still be recovering from the last few months of cold weather, but getting ready for the allergy season can help you defeat the spring sniffs before they become unbearable.

Dr. Tania Elliott, allergist and spokesperson for Flonase, explained to Bustle that there are several common culprits that cause these pesky allergies in the spring. "Tree pollen is the most common trigger of the spring allergy season, starting in mid-March and ending in late May. Then we see grass pollen from the end of May to the end of July, followed by weed and ragweed pollen, which causes allergies in August until the first frost, "explains she. Elliott adds that mites often cause allergies. This microscopic creature can particularly affect people who plan their wardrobe before the summer.

According to John Hopkins Medicine, allergies are the sixth largest chronic disease in the United States and affect about 50 million people. Some of the most common symptoms of allergies include runny nose, sneezing, coughing, fatigue, headache, shortness of breath, fever and even nausea. This can always seem like a low priority, but by tackling your allergies before they can allow you to enjoy all the wonderful aspects of spring. Here are seven expert tips on preparing for the allergy season, like a pro.

1. Store your medications in advance

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Instead of waiting until the last minute to consult your doctor or pharmacy, try taking your medications before you start to feel any allergy symptoms. Dr. Purvi Parikh, allergist and immunologist of the allergy and asthma network, recommends starting to use "allergy pills, nasal sprays and [your] inhaler before at the starting season – ideally, two weeks before. "

2. Be consistent with your medications

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It is not only important to store allergy medications in advance, but it is also important to consult your doctor to make sure you use them properly. "One of the most common misconceptions I see in clinical practice is that people use steroid-based nasal sprays after the onset of their symptoms, and only as needed," Elliott said. "These medications do not work that way."

As reported by Tonic, over-the-counter allergy medications are generally safe for long-term use and can be taken for people with daily allergies.

3. Clean your room

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Spring cleaning can be a nuisance, but undertaking this task can help you overcome some of your seasonal allergies. "Protect your room from allergies," says Parikh. "Air purifiers, anti-mite blankets, [and] Removing carpets will reduce your indoor allergen load. Thus, when outdoor allergens arrive, it will be easier to manage. She adds that keeping the windows closed "during the high pollen season, such as early morning" can also be beneficial for health.

4. Download a pollen tracking application

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If you want to get a head start on your spring allergies, Elliott suggests downloading a pollen tracking application, such as Weather Channel's Allergy Tracker, to limit your exposure to this common trigger.

5. See a doctor

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Of course, it is always wise to consult your health care provider about your allergies. Parikh says to "see a certified board allergist to learn your triggers, and [to learn] if you manage them correctly. "

6. Avoid products that attract pollen

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According to Elliott, some items may make you more likely to trigger pollen allergies. "On moderate to high pollen days, be sure to take precautions like […] avoid wearing hairspray because the pollen can stick to your hair. And consider wearing glasses rather than contact lenses (pollen may stick to contacts) or sunglasses to protect your eyes, "she says.

7. Wipe your ventilation and ceiling fans

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Spring announces warmer temperatures welcome. However, before turning on your air conditioning and ceiling fans, be sure to wipe them both. really well. "You want to avoid lighting them for the first time when they are dirty, which can pollute the air," Elliott said.

Seasonal allergies are annoying, but manageable if you are proactive. Consider testing these doctor-approved tips that can prevent you from sneezing and shortness of breath all through the spring.

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