Warmer weather, longer days and colorful flowers are now upon us in Moncks Corner, South Carolina. Everything about Spring entices us to spend as much time outdoors as possible. The only problem is that there is a common springtime annoyance that is lying in wait, ready to attach our sinuses at any given moment. The culprit? Pollen.
Its yellowness cakes our cars, lines our streets, and agitates our allergies. And, according to experts, this season is predicted to be one of the worst pollen seasons to date.
“There is likely to be a pollen superburst this season,” said Dr. Jordan Josephson, a sinus specialist at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York, in a hospital news release. “It promises to be a nasty spring.”
If you are one of the millions of people that are tired of sniffling and sneezing during pollen season, start fighting back with these tips.
Know your local pollen count
By knowing your local pollen count, you can avoid being outdoors when the pollen is at its worst. Typically, the pollen count tends to be highest between 10 am and 4 pm, meaning your symptoms could be worse during these times. To receive an accurate estimate of the pollen count, check the National Allergy Bureau, part of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology.
Keep pollen out of the house
If you have been outside for an extended amount of time, change clothes and rinse off in the shower to get rid of any excess pollen. Make sure to either keep your shoes outside or wipe them off before you come inside. These preventative measures will help keep the pollen from circulating inside your house.
Turn on the A/C and dehumidifier
One of the best ways to combat pollen is to run the A/C. This cleans and dries the air in your house and helps minimize the amount of pollen and mold in your home, which will, in turn, minimize the symptoms of your seasonal allergies. A dehumidifier will accomplish this as well.
Take the natural route
Another option is to take supplements. Natural supplements like nettles and plant pigment called quercetin act as an antihistamine and anti-inflammatory. Vitamin C is another antihistamine supplement that will also boost your immune system. Some other ways to combat pollen symptoms naturally is to use a saline spray or try a tea infused with cayenne or chili pepper – spicy flavors provide more immediate relief for nasal congestion and stuffiness.
These are just a few tips that we hope will make this pollen season a little bit more bearable in the Southeast. If you have a more serious allergy to pollen, consult your physician or allergist.
