When the weather warms up, everybody is itching to get outside. Then they go outside and start itching … sneezing, and coughing because of allergies.
If you’re one of the millions combatting allergies, you know how miserable they can make you feel. It makes enjoying the great outdoors next to impossible.
Those living in and around Fayetteville, Arkansas, can likely identify with this situation.
According to a 2024 Allergy Capitals Report conducted by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, Fayetteville ranked as the 10th most challenging place to live with seasonal allergies. Factors in the ranking include tree, grass, and weed pollen scores, over-the-counter allergy medicine use, and availability of board-certified allergists.
A number of cities in the South were near or at the top of the Allergy Capitals Report list. As the South stays hot longer, the growing season is active for a greater period of time, which means more pollen for everyone!
Fight Back
While you might not be able to change where you live or how many allergists live near you, there are things you can do to keep your pesky allergies under control:
Reduce Exposure to Allergens:
- Stay indoors on dry, windy days. Opt for outdoor activities after a good rain, which helps clear pollen from the air.
- Avoid lawn mowing, weed pulling, and gardening chores that stir up allergens.
- Shower and change clothes after being outside to rinse pollen from your skin and hair.
- Skip hanging laundry outside—pollen can cling to sheets and towels.
- Consider wearing a face mask during outdoor chores.
Monitor Pollen Counts:
- Check local TV, radio, or internet sources such as Pollen for pollen forecasts.
- Start taking allergy medications before symptoms kick in if high pollen counts are expected.
- Close doors and windows during peak pollen times.
HEPA Help
Those fighting allergies will likely want to familiarize themselves with HEPA products. High-efficiency particulate air filters (as officially defined by the U.S. Department of Energy) can theoretically remove at least 99.97% of dust, pollen, mold, bacteria, and any airborne particles with a size of 0.3 microns.
- Use air conditioning with high-efficiency filters.
- Keep indoor air dry using a dehumidifier.
- Place a portable HEPA filter in your bedroom.
- Vacuum floors regularly with a HEPA-filtered vacuum cleaner.
Consider Over-the-Counter Remedies:
- Oral antihistamines can relieve sneezing, itching, and runny nose.
- Corticosteroid nasal sprays can improve nasal symptoms. However, be sure to consult with your health care provider about long-term use.
Remember, consistency is key! These strategies may take time, but they’ll help you combat allergies naturally and enjoy the seasons more comfortably.
Source: Mayo Clinic