Seasonal Allergies Prevention

There’s a line in a song saying” it’s the most wonderful time of  the year…” especially Christmas season is just around the corner. Most countries in the western hemisphere have changing seasons that brings a different ambience, weather and mood but it does bring seasonal allergies too.

Seasonal allergies are allergic reactions of some people to a change in season When seasons change, the wind coming from far places usually carries with it pollen from trees, grasses and weeds.

Trees that commonly  cause seasonal allergies are oak, olive, elm, birch, ash, hickory, poplar, sycamore, maple, cypress and walnut. Typically, plants are pollinated by bees like flowers but other plants like grasses and weeds pollinate when the wind spreads the pollens. These long-travelling pollens are commonly found in the air during spring or fall When this happens, people begin sneezing, coughing, have itchy red watery eyes and trigger other related disorders such as hay fever, eye allergies and even allergic asthma. Normally, pollen allergies are have a high incidence in the morning when wind is much stronger. This  frequently  happens during springtime.

Seasonal allergies are also experienced during summertime. The main reason behind such allergy are grasses. During this period, homeowners often cut grass or mow the lawn so air can spread the grass pollen easily. In fact, some people begin itching as soon as their skin comes in contact with grass causing hives to appear known as urticaria. Pollen is the main reason behind seasonal allergies whether it came from grass, trees or weeds.
How can we prevent exposure to pollen?

Because pollen is the main culprit behind seasonal allergies, it is smart to avoid exposure to pollen by doing the following:

1. Close the windows most of the time so pollen can't come in.

2. Reduce outdoor activities especially between 5am to 10am when pollen is abundant in the air

3. Try having a vacation in a seaside area when pollen is most active at certain seasons.

4. Use a machine dryer for your beddings and linens instead of hanging them outside

5. Make sure that all car windows are closed when travelling.

6. Hire help in cutting the grass in your lawn to avoid exposure to grass.

Truly, having a good understanding of what causes seasonal allergies and knowing ways to prevent them can lead to a more productive and healthier living.