4 tips to help you fight spring allergies

Erin Mullaney, MD

Allergy and Immunology

The days are getting longer and the weather is getting warmer. While some start dreaming of outdoor activities, others begin to worry about runny noses, itchy throats and watery eyes. Allergist Erin Mullaney, MD, shared a few proactive steps you can take to make the spring season bearable, or even enjoyable.

1. Make sure you’re using the right allergy medication. Not all over-the-counter options are created equal. In many cases, nasal sprays are the most effective form of medication, because they apply relief directly to the irritated nasal passages. If over-the-counter options don’t seem to be working for you, talk to your doctor about prescription options.
2. Start taking allergy medication before spring hits. Even if the weather isn’t quite spring yet, it’s actually the perfect time to begin an allergy medication regimen. Since allergy medication is helping your body build immunity to its irritants, it can take several weeks for the medicine to go into full effect. It’s best to begin while the weather is still cooler, so by the time spring is here to stay, your body will be fully prepared.
3. Keep windows closed. It can be tempting to open the windows and let fresh air circulate throughout your home on a nice spring day, but that fresh air brings thousands of outside irritants inside. For those with severe allergies, it’s best to leave windows closed and use fans to circulate air instead.
4. Wash off things that have been outside, including pets, clothes and yourself. Give outside pets more frequent baths or limit their time outside to avoid bringing allergens inside. Similarly, severe allergy sufferers may benefit from changing their clothes once they’ve been outside for extended periods of time.

“By taking a few small steps to limit your exposure to outside allergens, you can take on spring activities with confidence this allergy season, said Dr. Mullaney.