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It's Summertime and the living IS NOT easy for those people dealing with allergies. In fact, recent
reports show at least one in four people now suffer allergies and that number is rising.
Summer time means pollen time in many parts of the country…add the heat, sunshine and air pollution
caused by things such as car exhaust. and things are even MORE miserable for allergy sufferers.
Allergy specialists say the best thing you can do is stay indoors during the hottest part of the day
when ozone pollution is at its worst. Some other things you can do to cope this summer:
Change your air conditioning filters more often during the warmer months so they'll be more efficient at
trapping allergy-causing pollens or invest in an air purifying system for your home. The American Lung Association has found that indoor air pollutants, including pet dander, can be two to five times higher than outdoor levels. So, Keep pets out of the bedroom, brush your dog or cat weekly and vacuum often. Some other sniffling saving tips: Do not hang sheets or clothing out to dry. Pollen and molds collect on these materials and can trigger allergies later. Keep pollen outdoors. Take a shower, wash hair, and change clothes to remove pollen that may have collected on you and your clothing. And it seems the Early Bird Catches The Pollen -- Pollen levels are highest before 10 a.m., so try not to be outdoors at that time of the day. If possible, have someone else mow the lawn or rake leaves. These activities stir up pollens and molds.
One other concern with allergies is that they can lead to a sinus infection-this can cause pressure and
pain in the forehead or cheeks that's more intense than you usually feel with allergies.
You can lower your risk of developing a sinus infection by not smoking , avoid smoky environments
and/or places where you could come in contact with a lot of dust, mold, or pollen areas, wash your hands often, and drink plenty of fluids.
Also, make sure to take your allergy medications as prescribed by your doctor. If you start having
sinus pain that lasts for more than seven days-do yourself a favor and get to your doctor's office. |
