ALLERGIES

Every season of the year rings new obstacles to allergy sufferers, but there are plenty of things you can do to lessen your symptoms, no matter what the season brings.

Most spring allergies are related to pollen - powdery grains that are carried by wind or insects and are necessary for plant reproduction.  In the U.S., pollen season typically runs from March until October, but it can begin as early as January in southern states.

Hot, dry, and windy weather brings more pollen into the air and results in more allergy symptoms, like itchy, watery eyes, runny nose, coughing and other breathing difficulties. Pollen allergy symptoms are often minimal on rainy, windless days because pollen does not move much during those conditions.

Tips for Coping:

• Keep window and doors closed as much as possible to prevent pollen from blowing into your home and car.

• Avoid going outside between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m., when pollen counts are the highest.

• Don't hang dry your clothing outside, as pollen can be transferred to your clothes and into your home that way.

• Shower and wash your hair before bed so you don't spend the night covered in allergens.

• Exercise indoors during the pollen season.

• Wear a paper mask while gardening to protect yourself from flower and weed pollens.

• Remember that outdoor allergens can travel several miles. Although you may feel better when exercising further away from allergens like grass and trees, you may still exhibit allergy symptoms while on a tennis court, asphalt track, or even at the beach.

• To help prevent itchy, watery eyes when outdoors, wear wrap-around sunglasses to prevent allergens and wind from compounding the problem.

Allergy Tips for Fall

• Don't handle or rake leaves, hay or mulch. These are a prime breeding ground for molds.

• Hire a professional ro clean out your gutters if they are full of wet, moldy leave.

• Don't over-water your houseplants.

• Use dehumidifiers to remove water from the air. Keep thehumidity in your home below 50% to prevent the growth of mold.

• Clean shower curtains, tiles and grout regularly to prevent mold from building up.

Allergy Tips for Winter

• Store firewood outside - only burn logs that appear to be free of mold.

• Wash your blankets at least every 2 weeks in hot water to kill dust mites.