Health Advocate Blog

Take control of your seasonal allergies

Allergy season brings pollen, mold, and dust that can trigger sneezing, itchy eyes, congestion, and fatigue. The good news is that with the right strategies, you can feel more comfortable and keep allergies from slowing you down.

Quick tips for allergy relief

Check the daily pollen forecast. Use an app or weather site to track pollen levels. Plan your outdoor time for when the pollen count is lower.

Manage symptoms early. Take over-the-counter antihistamines or use eye drops when symptoms begin. Ask your pharmacist or doctor for help choosing the right option.

Keep pollen outside. Close windows on high-pollen days and run your AC to filter allergens from the air.

Dry laundry indoors. Avoid drying clothes and bedding outdoors on high-pollen days so they don’t bring pollen into your house. Use a dryer or indoor drying rack instead.

Use nasal rinses regularly. Saline rinses, like a neti pot, sinus rinse bottle, or nasal sprays, help remove pollen and soothe irritation.

Clean off when you come inside. After being outdoors, change your clothes, wash your hands and face, or shower if you have time. This removes pollen from your body and clothes.

Rinse or wipe down your pets. Since pets can carry pollen inside on their fur, a quick cleanup after walks or time outdoors helps reduce pollen coming into your home.

Keep your car clean. Wipe down surfaces like the dashboard and seats regularly, vacuum the floors, and use the AC on “recirculate” to help limit pollen in your car.

Shower before sleeping. If you’ve been outdoors later in the day, shower at night to wash pollen from your hair and skin so it doesn’t get into your bed.

Allergy relief works best when you stay consistent. Every action you take to manage your symptoms helps your body feel better and breathe easier. If symptoms start frequently disrupting your daily routines, focus, or sleep, talk with your doctor.