Spring-Time Sneezing: Keeping Allergies in Check

MedHealthInsurance is committed to ensuring your wellness and health year round. Learn more about seasonal allergies and keep your family safe and healthy this Spring.

The flowers are beginning to bloom and spring is in the air. For seasonal allergy sufferers, springtime can be a time of sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes, runny noses and other symptoms caused by pollens, grasses, dust mites and molds. The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology estimates that more than 40 million people are affected by seasonal allergies. Besides medication and limiting your time outside during peak pollen times, there are a number of steps you can take to ensure you’ll be feeling healthy enough to “stop and smell the roses.”

• Keep windows closed and use air conditioning – This keeps pollen from blowing into your home, floating in the air, and adhering to the curtains, furniture, carpet, etc. Air conditioning provides a comfortable temperature and reduces airborne allergens.
• Use HEPA filters and air purifiers – By maintaining the air quality in your home, you will have a comfortable environment that keeps your allergies under control. Filters should be cleaned regularly.
• Maintain a clean home – Dust furniture and clean floors to reduce dust particles, pet dander and mold, which can aggravate allergies.
• Wash bedding and linens in hot water – Bedding, curtains and towels should be laundered at a temperature of 130 degrees or higher. Use the dryer rather than hanging laundry outdoors where pollen can stick to fabrics.
• Vacuum your home regularly – Removing allergens from carpets and furniture can greatly improve the quality of air. Some vacuum cleaners have HEPA filters to further remove microparticles, including dust mites.
• Clean and brush pets – Regularly washing and brushing pets can remove dander and loose hair, which can intensify allergies. Any animal bedding should be washed weekly.

With these helpful hints, you can enjoy the spring weather without your allergies getting the best of you. A reliable health plan will also help to ensure your family will have access to the physicians and medications they need to enjoy the season.

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