Enjoy the Great Outdoors With Minimal Sneezing

Spring is a wonderful season for those who enjoy spending time outdoors. The weather is pleasant, flowers are blooming, and birds are chirping. However, for those who suffer from seasonal allergies, spring can be a nightmare. Sneezing, itchy eyes, and runny noses are just a few of the symptoms that can make it difficult to enjoy the beautiful days ahead. However, the residents of our over 55 communities in South Carolina don’t have to let allergies ruin their spring. Here are some tips for fighting spring allergies and enjoying all that spring has to offer.

Keep Your Living Space Clean

One of the best ways to fight allergies is to keep your home clean. Dust, pollen, and other allergens can collect on furniture, carpets, and curtains, so it’s important to dust and vacuum regularly. Make sure to have your air filters changed frequently and consider using an air purifying fan to help remove allergens from the air.

Wear a Mask

If you plan on doing yard work or spending time outside, consider wearing a mask. A mask can help filter out pollen and other allergens, reducing the amount that you breathe in. Think about how much this protects your throat and lungs! We suggest looking for a mask that is specifically designed for allergies and making sure that it fits well and is comfortable to wear.

Check the Pollen Count

Before heading outside, check the pollen count. Many weather apps and websites provide daily pollen counts for your area. If the pollen count is high, it’s best to stay indoors if possible. If you do need to go outside, consider wearing a hat and sunglasses to help keep pollen out of your eyes and hair.

Avoid Peak Pollen Times

Pollen levels are typically highest in the morning and evening, so try to avoid spending time outside during these times. Instead, plan your outdoor activities for the middle of the day, when pollen levels are usually lower.

Take Allergy Medication

If you suffer from allergies, talk to your doctor about taking allergy medication. There are many over-the-counter and prescription medications available that can help relieve allergy symptoms. Some medications can be taken daily to prevent allergies, while others are taken as needed for relief of symptoms. It’s important to talk to your doctor about which medication is right for you!

Stay Hydrated

You might be thinking this is an obvious tip. But drinking plenty of water can significantly help reduce allergy symptoms. When you’re dehydrated, your body produces histamine, which can make allergy symptoms worse. Drinking water can help flush out histamine and other allergens from your body.

Use Saline Nasal Sprays

Saline nasal sprays can help rinse out allergens from your nasal passages, reducing inflammation and congestion. Look for a saline spray that is specifically designed for allergies, and use it regularly to help relieve symptoms. Beware though, some nasal sprays have a maximum amount of days in a row that you can use them. Read the instructions thoroughly.

Seasonal allergies shouldn’t mean you have to miss out on all the fun of spring. By following these tips, you can reduce your allergy symptoms and enjoy all that spring has to offer! Whether you’re gardening, taking a walk, or just sitting on your porch enjoying the sunshine, these tips will help you breathe easy and enjoy the great outdoors. So, get outside, soak up some vitamin D, and enjoy the beauty of spring!

If you want to learn more about our over 55 communities in South Carolina, give us a call or schedule a tour today!