1. Stay Away From the Great Outdoors
In spring and fall, pollen is at its worst for allergy sufferers. Pollen invades the senses all year round in some climates. The best protection is to stay indoors, but no one wants to do that, especially when it's beautiful outside. The next best thing is to choose your outings according to the weather. Stay in when the wind is blowing. It's easier to avoid flying pollen on still days. Avoid wooded areas in peak blossoming periods; wait for the trees to completely fill with leaves and lose their pollinating buds.
2. Close the Window
When you are indoors, keep the windows closed to prevent pollen from entering. The unwanted guests will not only hit you when they first enter, but will also become enmeshed in your furniture, carpeting, window treatments and clothing, waiting to hit you again and again. Run an air conditioner to keep the air circulating and remove a good portion of the pollen that does get in.
3. Wash the Pollen Away
After being exposed to pollen, wash your hands and your face. In peak pollen season, rinse your hands and face at least three or four times a day, whether you think you need it or not. As fresh as it may make your clothes, don't hang them out to dry. Especially do not hang sheets and bed covers outside on the line.
4. Wear a Mask
If you have really bad pollen allergies, then wear a mask when you have to be outside in the height of allergy season. If you work in the yard in the spring, cover your mouth and nose so that the pollen spores don't invade your system. Use disposable masks so you don't infect yourself each time you put them on. Wear gloves and keep your hands away from your face. Leave your shoes and jacket, and most of your clothes if you can, outside before you drag pollen through your house.
5. Keep Pets Outside
Pets can carry pollen in the house and drag it everywhere. Keep your pets outside, visit them there and then wash your hands immediately after petting them. If you would rather get rid of your allergist than put your pets outside, then at least keep them out of the rooms in which you spend the most time. Never let your pets in your bedroom, where you spend seven to eight hours at a time. Keep them in rooms with hardwood floors, tile or linoleum surfaces. Do not let your pets sit on the furniture. The pollen will get into the fibers and all over you every time you sit down.
