With warmer temps and growing plants, the pollen from trees and grasses can cause over 40 million Americans to suffer from seasonal allergies. Your immune system releases a histamine to fight off allergens [like grass, pollen, and mold], but you are left with irritating side effects, like a runny nose or itchy eyes. Follow these tips and tricks to combat seasonal allergies one sniff at a time --
1. Check the forecast.
Before adventuring outside for the day, you can check the weather for local pollen forecasts and levels to determine if it is a safe environment for an outdoor sweat sesh. High pollen counts can irritate your season allergies and flare up current symptoms, which may make it difficult to breathe or cause a stuffy/runny nose.
2. Close your windows.
You can avoid pollen by closing windows throughout the day and leaving outdoor activities for afternoons rather than mornings. The best time to be outside is after a rain shower because the water cleans the air of pollutants and pollen!
3. Clean everything.
After you spend time outdoors, take off any clothes and shower to clean your hair/body of pollen residue. In addition to staying clean, try to keep the air indoors *fresh* for relief after heavy exposure to pollen. Turn on the air conditioning and clean common surfaces [carpets, floors, sheets] often to maintain a clean air environment in your home.
4. Treat your symptoms.
Seasonal allergies can cause severe symptoms that leave you feeling drained. Luckily, there are many forms of relief! Besides allergy medication, your body can thrive and recover with essential oils, natural supplements, and proper bodily care. Some essential oils, like peppermint and eucalyptus, can open the nasal passages to relieve and calm respiratory issues. Natural supplements, like Vitamin A and spirulina, can act as antihistamines to fight inflammation throughout your body.
5. Eat your fruits and vegetables.
Additionally, always take proper care of your body! Fuel-up with fruits and vegetables, stay hydrated and cleanse your body of outside pollen/allergens. When your immune system is strong, it can fight off seasonal allergies and leave your body feeling strong, too!
Seasonal allergies can be a huge pain throughout the summer, but with proper awareness and care, you can live each day outdoors!
