What to do during allergy season

by CJ Blomquist

OptumCare

Springtime means fresh flowers, warmer days and seasonal allergies. These may be a nuisance— or they might have a serious impact on your health. Here are some ways you can stay healthy: Every day: Check the weather report daily. Pay attention to the pollen counts; if they’re high, try to avoid outdoor activities.

On the go: Keep allergy medications on hand. If you have an inhaler, bring it with you. A face mask or covering can also help protect you, so keep wearing one.

At home: Keep doors and windows closed on windy days. If you have air filters, use them when you’re home. Change your clothes if you have been outside, as pollen can stick to your clothing until they are washed. Likewise, if you have pets that go outside, pollen can stick to their fur, so brush or wash them regularly to remove pollen and dust.

Managing symptoms

Here are some easy-to-use medications you can buy at the nearby pharmacy: Antihistamines: These help treat sneezing, runny noses and itchy eyes. Common brand names include Allegra, Claritin and Zyrtec.

Decongestants: These help treat a stuffy nose. But they can increase your blood pressure and heart rate, so check with your doctor first.

If your allergies are still pretty bad, or if you develop a cough or fever, you may want to call your primary care doctor, who can help you consider other treatments.