While Summer is a lovely time of year, it unfortunately brings allergy season along with it. For those who suffer with seasonal allergies such as hay fever, it is the season of sneezes and puffy eyes.
This can be especially annoying if you enjoy exercising outdoors when the weather is good. Check out our tips for not letting the pollen count ruin your outdoor workout routine and force you indoors.
How do I know if I have seasonal allergies?
Starting in February, there is an increase in pollen and mould, which are common triggers of seasonal allergies.
If you have symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, itchy nose and eyes and/or a runny nose during this time of year, then you may be suffering with seasonal allergies.
What to do
As it is essentially impossible to avoid flowers for the entirety of the Summer season, there are things you can do to lower the chances of your allergies being triggered.
1. Take allergy medication 30 minutes to 1 hour before going outdoors
This may seem like common sense, but many people make the easy mistake of taking their allergy medication too late or too close to leaving the house.
By taking your allergy medication 30 minutes to an hour before going outdoors you are preventing the release of histamine in your body.
Histamine is released by your body when it is exposed to allergens, causing symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, itchy nose and eyes and/or a runny nose. Prevent the release of such histamines means you can avoid these symptoms.
Pop into your local CarePlus Pharmacy and ask our friendly Pharmacists for advice on what allergy medication would best suit you.
2. Check the pollen count
The pollen forecast measures the amount of pollen grains in the air. The higher the amount of pollen grains, the more likely it is that your allergies will be triggered and your symptoms will present.
If the pollen count is high it is advised that you avoid going outdoors that day if possible and instead consider doing your workout indoors or an indoor class. However, if you do have to go outdoors, bear in mind that the pollen count tends to be highest in the morning and early afternoon, so try to schedule any outdoor activities later on in the day if possible.
3. Wear a hat and glasses
If you absolutely must go outside during a period of high pollen count, it is helpful to wear a hat and sunglasses to decrease the chance of pollen sticking to your hair, face or getting into your eyes and nose.
4. Try not to bring pollen indoors
Limit the amount of pollen you bring back indoors with you – it is vital to do your best to avoid bringing pollen and dust into your home to reduce the risk of triggering your hay fever symptoms.
Leave your shoes outside, change your clothes as soon as you get home and take a shower to wash off any pollen that may have landed in your hair or on your skin.
Try these simple but effective tips and get to enjoy the outdoors this allergy season.
