SPRING ALLERGY TIPS:

Check the Weather – Tree, grass and ragweed thrive during cool nights and warm days.
Information about your local pollen level is available on the Internet or in your local paper. If pollen counts are supposed to be particularly high on a given day, you can play it safe by staying inside. In general, pollen counts are highest on warm and breezy mornings and low on cool and rainy days.

Get a dehumidifier – Dust mites and molds flourish in a humid environment. Keep your indoor humidity level between 30–40 percent with the help of a humidifier or dehumidifier, to help prevent the growth of mold and mites.

Clean Every Surface – Wear a mask and gloves when cleaning, vacuuming, or painting to limit dust and chemical exposure. Vacuum twice a week. Clean your carpets with a HEPA vacuum to decrease dust mites and pet allergen levels. Mopping floors is also effective. Scrub refrigerators, sinks, tubs, floors, and garbage cans regularly to keep build-up — and your allergy symptoms — to a minimum.

Change Your Clothes and Shower After Spending Time Outdoors – During pollen season, your clothing and hair could be covered with pollen. So when you get home, it\’s not a bad idea to change your clothes and toss them in the laundry. You could also take a shower to rinse off any allergen left on your skin or in your hair.