Over 65 million adults and 13 million children in the U.S. experienced seasonal allergies in 2022 (source, source). In the lush subtropical and tropical climates of sunny Florida, seasonal allergies can persist throughout the year, making them a never-ending struggle. Instead of treating symptoms as they arise, savvy allergy sufferers know that taking proactive, preventative measures is essential to combating seasonal allergies with as little disruption as possible to their lives. In this post, we’ll give you six of our best tips to stay ahead of seasonal allergies all year long:
1. Know Your Triggers
If you don’t know what triggers your allergy symptoms, it’s hard to know how to avoid it. Common allergy triggers here in Florida include ragweed, pollen, trees, and mold. Schedule an appointment for an allergy test with a qualified doctor to find out exactly what triggers your allergies, then actively avoid those substances to stop allergy attacks before they even start.
2. Monitor Air Quality
If pollen or mold is one of your allergy triggers, you can quite easily keep up with local counts of each so you can minimize your exposure and plan your day. Check out websites like iqair.com to keep an eye on local air quality. Try to stay inside on days when pollen counts are high, or if you can not, wear a mask and eye protection while outside.
3. Create an Allergen-Free Environment
You can’t control what’s in the air outside or at your office, but you can definitely control the air inside your home. Make sure that you’re doing everything you can to keep allergens out of your home, such as:
- Use AC to filter air coming into the home (or your car)
- Change air filters frequently
- Use a HEPA air filter
- Keep all windows securely closed
- Use a dehumidifier to discourage mold growth
4. Follow a Regular Cleaning Routine
Keeping your home as clean as possible is very important when it comes to dealing with seasonal allergies. Not only can dust and dirt accumulation stir up an allergy episode, but mold can quickly grow in damp places, causing serious health issues if not remedied. When cleaning your home, we recommend that you:
Dust frequently with a damp cloth to tamp down the dust mites
Use a vacuum with a HEPA air filter to further eliminate allergens from the air
Wash bedding with hot water at least once per week
Don’t let clutter sit around to accumulate dust or potentially hide mold
5. Shower When You Get Home
Pollen and other allergens can actually attach themselves to you and your clothes throughout the day. Once you get home in the evening, you can transfer those allergens all over your home, including your bedding. Reduce the risk of contaminating your home by immediately taking off your clothes when you arrive home and promptly showering. This will remove any dust, pollen, or other allergens from your hair and skin and prevent any transfer to your bedding or other household items.
6. Consult With an Allergy Specialist
If you’re living with seasonal allergies, you need to employ the services of a skilled allergist who is familiar with the specific triggers and issues that are common here in Florida. An allergist will be able to help you identify your specific allergy triggers, develop a personalized treatment plan, prescribe medications or immunotherapy, and educate you on how to monitor your triggers and deal with acute episodes. This specialized care can significantly reduce your allergy symptoms and restore the quality of life you’ve been missing.
Don’t let seasonal allergies control your life anymore. If you’re on Florida’s Gulf Coast, trust the professionals and Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Associates of Tampa Bay to help you navigate through your seasonal allergies on the way to better health. Contact us at 813-971-9743 for more information or to schedule an appointment today.
