Spring is a beautiful season in Utah, but it’s also a season when allergies tend to peak for many pe

Utah is known for its natural beauty, particularly its flush of spring wildflowers. Although fields and slopes bursting with blooms are beautiful to look at, if you suffer from allergies, they can also mean plenty of sneezing and wheezing. 

As a leading allergy practice in Sandy and West Jordan, Utah, Allergy Associates of Utah helps patients manage allergy flare-ups whenever they occur. In this post, our team reviews five ways you can reduce your springtime allergy symptoms, so you can enjoy the lovely spring weather.

1. Know your local pollen count

Pollen is a major cause of spring allergies, and knowing the pollen count in your area can be an important part of managing your symptoms. Using sites like Pollen.com can help you plan outdoor activities for times and dates when the pollen count is expected to be low, so you can minimize flare-ups and focus on enjoying yourself instead.

On days when the pollen count is expected to be high, opt for indoor activities if you can. If you do decide to venture out, wearing sunglasses and a mask can help limit the amount of pollen that irritates your eyes and airways. You might also decide to take allergy medication ahead of time to reduce the chances of an allergic reaction.

2. Keep your windows closed

The warm spring air might feel welcoming, but keeping your windows open during the spring is an invitation for pollen and other allergens to come inside. Keeping your windows closed and using an indoor air filter is the best way to prevent allergens from bothering you while you’re indoors. 

Whether you have a whole-house air filtration system or window air conditioning units, it’s important to make sure you clean or change your filters regularly. Portable air purifiers can be a good option, too, especially in areas where you spend a lot of time, like your living room and bedroom.

3. Set a regular cleaning schedule

In addition to keeping your windows closed as much as possible, you can reduce your indoor allergens by cleaning regularly. Vacuum floors frequently using a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter to remove as many allergens as possible. Vacuum upholstery, too, and when you can, opt for throw rugs that can be shaken out instead of wall-to-wall carpeting.

Wash your bedding and curtains regularly, too, since these can harbor dust and dust mites. Stuffed animals can benefit from a regular “bath,” as well.

4. Change your clothes after being outside

Pollen and other airborne allergens can easily stick to clothing, and even your hair and skin. After spending time outside, take a shower, wash your hair, and change into fresh clothes, placing your “outdoor” clothes into the clothes hamper or washer right away.

Leaving your shoes on an exterior porch or mudroom prevents you from tracking allergens and dust into your home. If you can’t shower as soon as you come in, washing your face and hands thoroughly can help prevent you from breathing in allergens that could cause reactions.

5. Use allergy medications when necessary

Milder allergy symptoms may respond well to over-the-counter medications, like antihistamines and decongestants, but you shouldn’t use these products without consulting our team first. 

Some allergy medications can cause unwanted side effects or interact with other medications, especially medications used to manage chronic medical conditions, like heart disease or high blood pressure. Once you get the go-ahead to use these products, follow the packaging directions carefully and only take them as directed.

One more tip

One of the best ways to manage any type of allergy is to have an evaluation with our team. Through allergy testing and a review of your symptoms and triggers, we can tailor an allergy management plan that’s focused on your specific symptoms and sensitivities for relief you can count on in the spring and all year round.

Don’t let allergies control your life. To learn how we can help, request an appointment online or over the phone with the team at Allergy Associates of Utah in Sandy and West Jordan, Utah, today.