Some Resources To Help You Through the Allergy Season

Since I suffer from year-round allergies (perennial allegies), this is a timely blog entry. A number of people suffer with seasonal allergies caused by exposure to airborne substances (pollens).

Seasonal allergies occur only during certain times of the year: spring, summer and fall. Listed below are recommended tips from the American Academy of Allergy & Asthma Immunology (AAAAI):

• Do a thorough spring cleaning that includes curtains, rugs, windows, bookshelves, and air conditioning vents—this helps remove accumulated dust and mold.
• Keep windows closed at night to prevent pollens and mold from drifting into your house.
• When possible, use air conditioning, which cleans, cools, and dries air in your home and car.
• Avoid outdoor activities between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m.— this is the prime time for pollen emission.
• When traveling, keep the car windows up and the air conditioning on.
• Minimize outdoor activity when the weather is hot, dry, and windy. 
• Avoid hanging laundry out to dry—pollen and mold collects on them. 
• Remove pollen and mold from your hair and skin with a daily shower before bed.
• Use a filter mask when you mow your lawn or rake leaves.

Here is a list of books in the JCLC collection on allergies and asthma to help you make it through the allergy seasons.

If symptoms are severely affecting your daily life, you may want to consult an allergist or immunologist. These specialists can pinpoint theallergens causing your symptoms and develop a management plan that may include environmental adjustments in your work or living space and prescription medications, which are more effective and better tolerated than over-the-counter remedies. To find a specialist in your area and learn more about seasonal allergies, visit AAAAI’s website.

Submitted by Felita Y. Hawkins
East Lake Library