How to Avoid Pollen

For some time we have been discussing allergies and what causes an allergic reaction, the actual nature of the reaction, and the common allergens. Now it is time to put this knowledge to work at home.  If you have seasonal allergies you must know how to avoid pollen.

Avoiding different allergens requires different approaches. Some avoid pollen to reduce hayfeverstrategies require little to implement, others require an investment of time or money. Lets’ get started.

Steps to Avoid Pollen

Sadly complete avoidance of allergenic pollen or mold would means moving to a place where the offending substance does not grow and where it is not present in the air. Care to live in a bubble or on the moon?

But even this extreme solution would probably only offer temporary relief since a person who is sensitive to a specific pollen or mold may subsequently develop allergies to new allergens after repeated exposure.  For example, people allergic to ragweed may leave their ragweed-ridden communities and relocate to areas where ragweed does not grow, only to develop allergies to other weeds or even to grasses or trees in their new surroundings.

Because relocating is not a reliable solution, allergy specialists do not encourage this approach.  There are other ways to evade the offending pollen: remaining indoors in the morning, for example, when the outdoor pollen levels are highest. Sunny, windy days can be especially troublesome. If you must be outside on high pollen count days, then be aware that you are carrying pollen on your clothing and hair when you come inside. That means going straight to the bathroom to shower, wash your hair, and put on fresh clothing.  Do not put pollen-contaminated clothing in your bedroom, but take it directly to the laundry room or a laundry hamper that is not in the bedroom. 

Keep pets indoors too when pollen counts are high. Your pet’s fur will collect pollens when they are running around and then bring them inside where they will contaminate your living area. We know it is not practical to keep them in so you will need to brush out their fur when they come in.

If you must work outdoors during pollen season, wear a face mask designed to filter pollen out of the air and keep it from reaching your nasal passages.  If you don’t wear a pollen mask, re-read the section on nasal irrigation. You might want to invest in a neti pot or other nasal irrigation device to use when you come inside after being out on high pollen count days.

People who take their vacations at the height of the pollinating season should choose a location where exposure would be minimal. The seashore, for example, may be an effective retreat for many with pollen allergies so come on down to sunny South Florida and stay on the beach.

Till next time
Cheryl

The Allergy Store