By Neena Chawla, MD
Edited by Megan Black, Marketing Specialist
The cottonwood is flying, the pollen is dusting, and everything seems to be blooming! It’s spring in the Pacific Northwest – a beautiful time to reside in Washington State…that is…if your allergies allow you to enjoy it! Sound Family Medicine provider Dr. Neena Chawla is back on the blog to share some helpful tips on the management and prevention of allergies – so you can get outdoors and enjoy the diverse recreational offerings in our region.
So, what are allergies exactly?
Allergies happen when the immune system reacts to a foreign substance that gets inside the body. These substances are known as allergens. The immune system naturally makes protective proteins, called antibodies, that attack invaders such as germs and foreign material. But with allergies, the immune system has a “miscommunication” and makes antibodies that mark a specific allergen as harmful – even though it isn’t. Coming into contact with the allergen then causes an immune system reaction that can inflame the skin, sinuses, airways or digestive system.
Common allergens include: pollen, bee venom, pet dander, foods and medicines.
Common Allergy Symptoms
Allergic reactions can range from minor irritation to a life-threatening emergency called anaphylaxis. While most allergies can’t be cured, treatments can help relieve your allergy symptoms.
Some ways to identify allergies include:
- Sneezing
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Itchy eyes, nose, or throat
- Watery, red, or swollen eyes
- Fatigue
Tips to Manage High Pollen Days
1. Keep Windows Closed
Keeping your windows and doors closed keeps pollen and other irritants (like wildfire smoke) out of the home. Keeping the curtains closed on hot days will also help to keep the space cooler. If you have an air purifier, make sure it is on and replace the filters for the new season. If you don’t have an air purifier, try this popular DIY trick with a box fan and filter. Air conditioners should be run on the recycled setting.
2. Shower After Being Outdoors
Thanks to our special brand of grey, dark winters, summertime in the Pacific Northwest is jam-packed with a barrage of fun outdoor activities and social gatherings. If you were out on a hike, playing sports, paddleboarding, or doing any other activity where you’ve been outdoors for an extended period of time (P.S. – Make sure to wear sunscreen!) it’s a good idea to take a quick shower when you return home. Pollen can settle into your hair and onto your clothes and skin, so a shower will keep you from breathing in pollen all night as you sleep.
3. Change Clothes Upon Entering Home
Similar to showering, a quick wardrobe change can keep pollen from distributing itself over your furniture and bedding. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to put on that comfy loungewear earlier! If anything, remove your shoes to avoid tracking allergens into your home.
4. Wear Sunglasses
Not only do sunglasses protect your eyes from harmful UV rays, they can also help keep pollen out of your eyes and lashes – minimizing your risk of red, itchy, watery eyes.
5. Limit Outdoor Activities During Peak Hours
Pollen counts are typically lowest from 4AM to noon. If you are able, schedule your outdoor activities for early morning or late evening (after 9PM) when pollen levels are lower.
6. Use HEPA Filters
HEPA stands for High-Efficiency Particulate Air. HEPA filters work mechanically by forcing air through fine-mesh to filter out particulate matter, including pollen, dust, and other allergens. They are stated to remove at least 99.97% of particles 0.3 microns or larger, making them a very “efficient” form of air filtration indeed.
If you’re in the market to purchase a HEPA filter, you can find them at most hardware stores and online retailers. Make sure to choose a filter that is powerful enough for the space you’re placing it in. Typically, the bedroom is a good location to start with when adding an air filter. Don’t forget to grab some replacement filters if needed as well.
7. Start Medications Early
Don’t wait until symptoms begin! Make sure to take your allergy medication first thing in the morning or prior to entering the outdoors, so that it has time to kick-in beforehand.
8. Monitor Pollen Levels
All of these tips can be adjusted and anticipated by keeping a close eye on your local pollen count! A few useful tools are:
- PollenWise app: Displays data from DOH’s network of pollen monitors
- Northwest Allergy and Asthma Website
- IQ Air
Bonus Tips: Pet Precautions
Pets will readily track pollen into your home, leaving it on your carpets and furniture. Wipe pets’ paws and fur after they’ve been outside to prevent them from bringing pollen indoors – particularly if they have been walking through vegetation like freshly-mowed grass.
Did you know pets can get seasonal allergies too? If you see an increase in licking of paws, sneezing/snorting, or congested eyes, your pet might be having similar symptoms as you! To help your find your furry friend some relief, contact your local veterinarian. They may be able to prescribe an antihistamine or other pet-safe allergy medication.
Still have questions? Make an appointment with your PCP
Your primary care provider can guide you through allergy season and offer additional treatment and referrals, if needed. Don’t suffer through year after year…schedule a visit today by calling 253-848-5951. Click here to meet our providers who are accepting new patients.
Please note, this content is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice or professional services. It’s still important to talk to your healthcare provider to find the treatment that is right for you. To make an appointment, call 253-848-5851 or send a message through MyChart.
Source: Atlanta Allergy
