Allergies, Inside & Out

The following is an Editorial Resource from YourTotalHealth.

Plan Your Day Outdoors

Reviewed by: Marc J. Sicklick, MD, FAAAAI, FACAAI

Planning any outdoor event can be a complicated affair if you have seasonal allergies. Here are a few tips that can make things a bit easier:

• Always check the pollen report and plan your day accordingly. If the reports are high, it may be best to postpone your outing.
  
  
• Plan around the time and weather. Best bet: Go out between late morning and early evening on cooler, less windy days.
  
  
• Wear protective clothing. Eyeglasses or sunglasses will protect your eyes from airborne allergens. If the pollen and mold counts are high, or you have severe allergies, wear a mask that filters allergens from the air.
  
  
• Avoid areas undergoing yard work. Mowing the lawn or raking the leaves can stir up pollen and mold spores.
  
  
• When you get home, wash up. The goal is to leave allergens outdoors and get them off your body. Take your shoes off and leave them by the door. Wash your hands and face; shower and wash your hair frequently.
  
  
• Consider vacation spots carefully. Different areas of the country undergo allergy seasons at different times, and have different types of allergens. Pay attention to the local pollen reports of the places you want to go. With a little planning, you may be able to escape the allergy season.
  
  
• Know the zip code of your destination? Check out the pollen count there now.
  
  

What's Next: Exercising Outside

• Meet the Allergens
  
• Manage Your Allergies
  
• Home: Your Allergy-Free Zone
  
• Keep Your Pet!
  
• Love the Outdoors Again
  
• Sneeze-Free Gardening
  
  

Review date: 02-19-2008