In 2018 alone, over 19 million people were diagnosed with hay fever and allergies. Itchy, watery eyes, scratchy throats, sneezing, and breathing issues are among the most common symptoms of responses to outdoor allergens. And for many, allergy season can severely affect their spring, summer, and fall seasons with sickness and respiratory difficulties. How can you manage your symptoms during the Topeka allergy season? These five tips from The University of Kansas Health System St. Francis Campus Urgent Care may come in handy this spring.
1. Stay Indoors, or Monitor the Daily Pollen Count
Keeping an eye on the daily pollen count in your area can save you plenty of hardship during the day. This gauges how much pollen and other allergens are present in the air. If you can stay inside on high pollen count days, this can help you to avoid allergy symptoms. Or, if you still have to venture outside, consider wearing a mask to block airborne pollen from entering your lungs and nose. Check your local news or radio stations for a weather recap of the pollen count, or stay updated with the National Allergy Bureau allergen report.
2. Alleviate Symptoms With Allergy Meds & Nasal Rinses
If you struggle with seasonal allergies, you are likely no stranger to sinus issues. As you spend time outside, even during short trips to work or running errands, you are inhaling particles of dust, pollen, mold, and other allergens. One way to protect your sinuses during this Topeka allergy season is with nasal washes, nasal sprays, and over-the-counter allergy medicines. Saline solutions and distilled water can help to wash away allergen particles from your nasal passageways. And, additional medicines can help to fight inflammation or irritation. If you find that over-the-counter medications aren’t doing the trick, check-in online at our urgent care. We can help you find the right medicines to make it through allergy season.
3. Shower Daily
As you walk outdoors, allergens in the air, such as pollen and mold, can stick to your clothing and hair. And when you return home, you are bringing these allergens inside your house. Limit the amount of pollen you track inside by not re-wearing your clothing during the week. Instead, place your clothes into your washing machine or hamper as soon as you get home. Then, take a warm shower to wash away any residual particles.
4. Keep Windows Closed
While warmer weather and fresh air make it tempting to crack your windows during the day, this could increase your risk of an allergy attack. Especially on windy days, open windows in your home or car can make contact with pollen much easier. Keep them closed until your local pollen count is at a safer level! To further fight seasonal allergies, make sure to use a filter with your air conditioner to catch additional dust and pollen particles floating around. Air purifiers are also a fantastic way to filter the air inside your home and prevent allergic responses.
5. Take Time to Rest
Allergy season can take a toll on your body. Respiratory issues can strain your muscles and zap your energy throughout the day, as can constant sneezing and coughing. And if your allergies develop into an infection, this can lead to further exhaustion. Make sure to listen to your body’s indications of tiredness, and give yourself a chance to rest. Take time to relax indoors, away from the pollen and allergens outside.
Get Through the Topeka Allergy Season With Help From The University of Kansas Health System St. Francis Campus Urgent Care!
With the help of our urgent care in Topeka, you and your family can stay well this allergy season. Whether you are fighting with persistent allergy symptoms or think you may be struggling with another sickness, our staff is here to give you the tools to feel better, faster. We know how busy life can get. This is why we have three convenient locations, including our newest Lake Shawnee urgent care, so that you can quickly and easily get in, out, and on with your day. Visit your closest clinic or check-in now online to mark your place in line. We look forward to helping you enjoy the season allergy-free!