Allergens and Avoidance

Minimizing allergen contact is the first line management for allergic diseases. Perennial or year-round symptoms are caused mostly by indoor allergens. Seasonal symptoms or hay fever are caused by airborne pollens in different seasons.

indoor-allergy-house-imagePerennial Allergens

 

outdoor-allergy-pollen-imageHay Fever / Seasonal Allergens (Pollens)

Minimize outdoor activity on days when pollen counts are high, especially on windy days, late evenings, and early mornings. Pollens are usually released from trees and plants – between 5AM and 10AM.

  • Stay indoors if possible when the pollen count is high and on windy days when pollen is blowing around.
  • Put a hat on when going outdoors. Wipe face, eyebrows, eyelashes, and nose with cold water, change clothes or take a bath after staying outdoors.
  • Close all windows at night.
  • Air conditioning decreases indoor pollen counts if it re-circulates indoor air instead of drawing in outside air.
  • Fans in the attic or other rooms may aggravate the problem by drawing in outside air with high pollen counts.
  • Keep car windows closed and, if possible, have air conditioning in the car.
  • Consult with your allergist before you plant trees and shrubs around your house.

Check today’s pollen count at www.pollen.com