10+ Tips for Beating Seasonal Allergies

If you want to know what’s blooming in your area or when a specific type of grass or weed has a high pollen count, check out the National Allergy Bureau (NAB) data on the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology website. If you already know what grasses, trees or weed bother you most, use it to plan your outdoor activities.

If you’re not sure what culprits are causing your agony, start an allergy journal. Record the days your symptoms are high and compare it to the data on the NAB website. They'll email you a report if you set up an account.

If you are annoyed by allergies all year long, it might be due to dust mites, pet hair, dander or mold. Fortunately, there are things you can do around the house to lessen your symptoms. Unfortunately, there is some cleaning involved.

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The less stuff in your house, the fewer places for allergens to hang out. And, just as important, the easier it will be to clean thoroughly once a week. Get rid of old rags, newspapers, clothes and other porous items. Limit knickknacks, magazines, and other dust catchers. Focus on bedrooms especially, because you and allergens both spend more time there.

Use HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filters in the air conditioning system. Maintain the humidity level in the house at about 50 percent. Mold likes moisture, and dust and pollen are easily stirred in dry air.