Allergies can turn a day outside into a battle with itchy eyes, sneezing and congestion. More than 50 million people have an allergic reaction each year, making allergies the sixth-leading cause of long-term illness in the U.S. Often, the easiest way to avoid allergy symptoms is to avoid your allergens altogether, also known as allergy avoidance. Let’s dive into how to track your allergens and learn how to effectively avoid them.
Understanding Allergy Avoidance
Allergy avoidance is a proactive strategy aimed at reducing or eliminating contact with allergens. By identifying and steering clear of the substances that cause allergic reactions, you can reduce the impact of your symptoms. This method is especially helpful for individuals with environmental allergies such as pollen.
How to Track Allergens in Your Area
The first step in allergy avoidance is to know what allergens are prevalent in your environment and when. Â Here’s how you can stay informed:
- Allergy forecast websites: Many weather websites and apps provide daily allergy forecasts, indicating the levels of common allergens like pollen. Some popular options include Weather.com, Pollen.com and the Asthma and Allergy Network forecast. Knowing the forecast helps avoid outdoor activities, like park days in Washington Park, by avoiding days with high allergen forecasts.
- Mobile apps: There are several mobile apps designed to help allergy sufferers. Apps like AllergyCast, WebMD Allergy and klarify can provide real-time updates on allergen levels in your area.
Effective Methods to Avoid Allergens
Once you’re aware of the allergens in your environment, the next step is to minimize exposure. Here are some practical tips:
- Keep windows closed: During high pollen seasons, keep windows and doors closed to prevent pollen from entering your home.
- Use air purifiers: Air purifiers can help filter out airborne allergens like pollen, dust mites and pet dander.
- Regular cleaning: Frequent vacuuming with a HEPA filter vacuum and regular dusting can reduce indoor allergens. Wash bedding in hot water weekly to kill dust mites.
- Limit outdoor activities: Try to stay indoors when pollen counts are high, typically in the morning or on windy days.
- Shower after being outdoors: Pollen can stick to your hair and clothing, so showering and changing clothes after being outside can help reduce exposure.
- Wear sunglasses and hats: Protect your eyes from pollen by wearing sunglasses and hats when outdoors.
- Keep pets out of certain areas: Designate pet-free zones in your home, especially in bedrooms.
- Regular pet baths: Bathing pets regularly can help reduce the amount of dander they shed.
Allergy avoidance is a practical and effective way to manage allergy symptoms. By staying informed about the allergens in your area and taking proactive steps to minimize exposure, you can enjoy a better quality of life with fewer allergy flare-ups.
To learn more about which allergies affect you most and how to best manage your symptoms, contact Mt. Hood ENT & Allergy to schedule an appointment today.