Preventing seasonal allergy symptoms

Allergies can lead to painful and bothersome symptoms, especially during peak allergy season. Allergies can also cause sinus infections, and many who experience allergies also experience asthma or asthmatic symptoms. Below are tips to reduce both seasonal and year-round environmental allergens including dust mites, mold, animal dander and pollens. Naturally you should seek medical assistance if symptoms are severe.
 

• Remove heavy drapes, upholstered furniture and stuffed animals that are likely to collect dust.
• Use a zippered, plastic air-tight cover on all pillows and mattresses.
• At least every 14 days wash all bedding and stuffed animals in hot water.
• Keep indoor pets out of your child’s bedroom and wash your pet each week to remove surface allergens.
• Avoid damp basements or water-damaged areas of your home to prevent mold exposure.
• If possible, remove all carpets.
• Vacuum as frequently as possible.
• Use a filter on all air vents.
• Avoid the use of ceiling fans.
• During the height of allergy season, keep windows closed, avoid exposure to pollens and limit outdoor activities when pollen counts are highest (early morning for spring time tree pollens, afternoon and early evening for summer grasses, and in the middle of the day for ragweed in the fall).
• Consider using a HEPA filter to control airborne allergens (these only work if what you are allergic to is airborne, which doesn’t include dust mites and mold).
• Since dust mites and mold increase in high humidity, keep indoor humidity low.
• Provide a smoke-free environment for yourself and any children.