Get the Jump on Managing Spring Allergies

People love the spring season because it’s a time for all things fresh and new. Spring means green leaves on the tree, fresh flowers springing up, and lush grass growth. That may make the world look beautiful — but it’s bad news if you have allergies. 

Fortunately, you can take some steps to grow your defense against spring allergy symptoms even as the trees, flowers, and grass grow. Jonathan S. Leibowitz, MD, PC, has gathered some tips to help his patients in Brooklyn. At his office in Borough Park, New York, he offers dedicated allergy treatment; but our hope is that with these tips, you might be able to fend off the worst of the season on your own.  

#1: Get your house in order

Your home is your castle, and it can defend you against allergy symptoms. The key is to make sure you limit how much pollen gets into it. Start by giving it a thorough cleaning and closing up your windows before spring gets underway. 

Also, consider swapping out your air filters now so you can maximize the amount of clean, pollen-free air that circulates inside your home this spring. 

#2: Start taking allergy medication now

It might seem unnecessary to start taking your preferred allergy medication before spring gets underway. In fact, some people who pretreat their allergies decide it’s not worth it because they never experience their symptoms. Without symptoms, why would you take medication?

But that’s the thing. If you start controlling your body’s immune response — which is responsible for your allergies — now, you can give yourself the best shot at a completely symptom-free spring. 

Once your body starts the improper immune response that creates your allergies, it’s hard to get it under control. But if you can prevent it before it begins, you can set yourself up for success. 

#3: Adjust your schedule

After the long nights of winter, you probably took advantage of any daylight hours when you didn’t have to be at work. But now, as the days lengthen, think about getting more strategic with your outdoor time. Airborne pollen count peaks between 5 and 10 am each day, so plan your outdoor outings for your lunch break or after work when you can. 

Also, mind the wind. Since gusts kick up pollen, postponing your outdoor activities until the wind dies down can help you minimize allergy symptoms. 

After you return home, be mindful of the pollen you could be bringing with you. Leave jackets and shoes by the door. If you want to keep symptoms at bay, consider showering and putting on clean clothes immediately after being outdoors. 

If you want help finding the right home cleaning routine, medication, and schedule to keep your spring allergies at bay, we’re here. Call Jonathan S. Leibowitz, MD, PC, or book your appointment at our office online.