While spring officially arrived last month, our longer than usual winter and colder than usual spring has pushed the start of spring allergies from April to May. For many people, actually one in six Canadians, this means itchy or runny eyes, sneezing, headaches, a stuffy or runny nose and a variety of other symptoms that can last anywhere from a few weeks to a few months (depending on the type and amount of pollen released and how hot & dry the season ends up being). If you’re a long time allergy sufferer or if you’re allergies are just developing, here are some simple tips to help get you through the coming season:
 
KEEP YOUR WINDOWS & DOORS CLOSED:
Keeping you windows and doors tightly closed as often as possible will help to prevent pollen and other allergens from entering your home. Of course, this means everyone in the household has to do their part.
 
DON’T DRY YOUR CLOTHES OUTSIDE:
While drying your clothes outside does save energy and allows for that fresh outdoor smell, it also allows pollen and other allergens into your home and next to your skin.
 
PAY CLOSE ATTENTION TO POLLEN COUNTS:
To help minimize your exposure to pollen and other allergens, try to avoid spending too much time outdoors when pollen counts are high. If possible, try to plan your activities accordingly.
 
TAKE A SHOWER SHORTLY AFTER COMING BACK INSIDE:
While this may not always be possible or practical (especially if you’re going back out again), this can help to reduce the number/amount of allergens you bring into your home.
 
Following these tips should help to reduce your overall level of discomfort this allergy season. Of course, there are also a number of prescription & non-prescription medications available for more severe reactions.