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Tips on Getting Through the Pollen Seasons

Watery eyes, running nose and constant sneezing may seem like a recipe for a common cold. But during the fall and spring months, these symptoms signal allergy season for some. Pollen, tiny male cells expelled from flowering plants, are often to blame Several strategies may help people who are prone to seasonal allergies ride out the pollen season in comfort.

  1. Pollen Seasons

    • Different types of pollen exist. The pollen types that cause problems from seasonal allergy sufferers include ragweed pollen, grass pollen and tree pollen, according to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS). From August to November, people usually react to ragweed pollen. Tree-pollen season, on the other hand, varies based on the region. Southern states may begin tree-pollen season as soon as January; northern states may see tree-pollen season in May. Like tree pollen, grass-pollen season also depends on the region.

    Outside Tips

    • Though it may not be attractive, a face-mask protects people from pollen by filtering airborne pollen before it reaches the nose. Avoidance of outdoor activities during peak pollen hours between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m. may help as well. Pollen counts decrease later in the day and after heavy rain. For daily pollen counts, allergy sufferers can check online weather sites that track pollen counts across the country.

    Inside Tips

    • National Jewish Health, a nonprofit hospital that's been ranked as the No. 1 respiratory hospital in the nation since 1999, recommends that allergy sufferers stay indoors during the daytime hours. To prevent pollen from inflicting havoc indoors, homeowners should keep the doors and windows closed as much as possible. To reduce indoor pollen pollution further, NIEHS suggests running an air conditioner, avoiding devices like fans that blow around pollen. Pets should also stay indoors as their fur can attract pollen from outside and transport it indoors.

    Habits

    • Changes in hygiene habits reduce allergic reactions. Regular hand-washing, for example, prevents the unintentional transfer of pollen from the hands to nose and eyes, according to National Jewish Health. Taking a shower and hair-washing after outdoor exposure helps as well, notes the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI).

    Pollen Season Preparation

    • People with pollen allergies shouldn't wait to take medication. Allergy medicines work best when taken before symptoms begins, according to the ACAAI. These medicines should be taken in the late winter or late summer.

    Considerations

    • A health-care provider can provide additional advice on pollen season survival. Sometimes symptoms don't improve. This may be a sign of a different type of allergy. A physician can conduct tests that will determine the exact allergy and then prescribe treatment for that allergy.

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