Learn How to Allergy-Proof Your Life

You know those days when you’re feeling ah-may-zing?!? It puts a huge smile on your face. Welp, that’s what happens when you figure out how to allergy-proof your life.

As it turns out, allergens are all around us. But, there is a plus side to all of this. Once you’ve figured out what’s causing your allergies, you can make a plan to allergy-proof your life (or, you know, at least reduce the number of allergens in your life).

Here’s the Plan, Stan.

Find the best time to exercise. If you’re going to exercise outside, the best time to do it is in the early morning or late evening. That’s because grass and trees release pollen starting at sunrise – and peak in the late morning and early afternoon. If you know pollen counts are going to be high on a certain day, consider working out indoors.

Ditto for yard work. If you plan on being outside during a time when pollen counts are high, then wear a mask or scarf. This can be especially helpful when cutting the grass. After you’ve been outside, change your clothes and shower right away to remove pollen.

Use a cleaning trend that’s sweeping the nation (get it?!?). It seems counter-intuitive, but cleaning can actually aggravate your allergies. That’s because dust, mold, and other allergens get stirred up as you vacuum, sweep, etc. When cleaning, make sure the area is well-ventilated. If you outsource your cleaning, it’s best for you to not be in the home at the time it’s cleaned.

Make the bedroom an allergy-free zone. As much as pets are a part of your family, your best bet is to keep them out of the bedroom. Even if you’re not allergic to cats or dogs, they can bring in pollen, dust, mold, and other allergens.

Keep windows closed all over the house, but especially in the bedroom. Run a HEPA filter in your bedroom with the door closed to have the greatest impact.

Keep in mind these general rules of thumb. If you have central air, use a whole-house filter with MERV 11 or 12 rating and replace it every three months. Also, avoid cigarette smoke and fragrances which are significant irritants to your airway.

That’s it! Now, you’re well on your way to breathing easier. If you need additional assistance, you can make an appointment with one of our board certified allergists.