6 Ways to Control Spring Allergies

Spring has finally arrived in Indiana. The temps are getting warmer. The grass is getting greener. The daffodils are blooming. And the trees have buds on them and are bursting into flowers. But with the arrival of spring also comes seasonal allergies, causing your nose to run and your eyes to water.

According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, the most common indoor and outdoor seasonal allergy triggers are:

• Tree, grass and weed pollen
• Mold spores
• Dust mite allergens
• Cat or dog dander

But here are some tips to help you manage your seasonal allergies instead of suffering through them.

1. Educate yourself about over-the-counter (OTC) medications. Oral OTC antihistamines and nasal sprays and inhalants can be effective in managing seasonal allergy symptoms. Talk to your doctor for recommendations. If your allergy symptoms aren’t controlled, try switching OTC medication brands. Note: Decongestants don’t work as well with allergies since they’re designed for short-term use – seven days or less. Also long-term use of short-term nasal decongestants can lead to rebound nasal congestion.
2. See an allergist if OTC medications don’t work. An allergist can help you find out what exactly you’re allergic to and make a treatment recommendation.
3. Take your medication early in the day. In order for your medication to work, it needs to be in your system before you head outside.
4. Wear a protective allergy face mask when you’re working outside. For mild allergies, a simple disposable paper mask may work. Or, if you have more severe symptoms, use a respirator mask with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter.
5. Watch pollen counts. If the pollen counts are high or it’s windy outside, plan to stay indoors as much as possible.
6. Reduce the allergens circulating throughout your home. Outdoor allergens can get inside, no matter what you do. Use a high-efficiency furnace filter (MERV 11 or 12). Install a HEPA air purifier in your home. Contact T.J.’s Chimney Service in Greenfield, Ind., to have your air ducts professionally cleaned. Air duct cleaning removes dust, dirt, pollens, and pet hair and dander found inside your home’s duct system, so less of these allergy-aggravating particles will circulate throughout the air in your home. Call T.J.’s Chimney Service today at 317-455-5310 to schedule your air duct cleaning appointment.