The beauty of nature can be difficult to see if you have a pollen allergy. Plants release a substance called pollen to aid in their reproduction, and pollen travels through the air to find another plant to fertilize. Pollen levels can be particularly high in certain areas of the country or in certain times of year, giving people with pollen allergies some agonizing symptoms. If you suffer from a pollen allergy, you can find ways to control the sneezing, sniffling, coughing and water eyes caused by irritating pollen.
Take Allergy Medications
Antihistamine medications can help ease allergy symptoms like itching, sneezing and runny nose, says the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), while decongestants can help alleviate a stuffy nose. Try a nasal spray with steroids or eye drops to help alleviate nasal allergy symptoms and itchy eyes that water.
Consider Allergy Shots
People with severe allergies may find pollen allergy relief from allergy shots, called immunotherapy. If you know you are allergic to pollen, these shots inject a tiny amount of the allergen into your body and help to develop a protective effect, says the AAFP.
Close the Windows
Even if you enjoy the fresh air, it is time to keep windows shut if you have a pollen allergy, says the AAFP. Particularly when pollen counts are high, keep windows in your home and car closed and run the air conditioning instead. This will help keep pollen outside and not contaminating your home.
Stay Inside
Pay attention to alerts for high pollen count. If it is a bad day for pollen with high levels in the air, spare yourself the trouble of allergy symptoms and do your best to stay inside as much as possible. Limiting your exposure to pollen is one of the best ways to get relief from symptoms.
Wash Off Pollen
If you have been outside, you are carrying in pollen on your skin, clothing and hair when you walk into your home. To help relieve allergy symptoms, the AAFP suggests that you change clothes and take a shower to wash off the pollen.
Keep Your Home Clean
Pollen and other allergens can seep into your home and settle on your carpets and furniture. To keep your home as free as possible from allergens, vacuum, dust and wash linens frequently, says the AAFP.
