It’s Hay Fever Season
According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, allergic rhinitis (commonly known as hay fever) affects approximately 50 million people in the United States, or one in five Americans. Hay fever is caused by the body’s allergic response to the pollen of trees, grasses, weeds or other airborne substances known as allergens. Common allergic reactions include sneezing, sniffling, itchy and watery eyes, and sometimes even more serious symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue and headaches.
Tips to Lessen Allergy Symptoms
You can’t avoid pollen completely, but there are simple measures you can take to minimize the suffering.
- Know the daily pollen count. Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to allergies. On days when pollen counts are high, shut the windows and use the air conditioner. Get up-to-the-minute reports on local pollen count.
- Go out in the evening. Most plants pollinate in the morning, so when possible, try to schedule outdoor activities later in the day when pollen tends to die down. Hot, dry and windy days are peak allergy days.
- Rinse off after being outside. Pollen covers your body and clothes when you are outdoors. After you get home, change your clothes and take a shower to get rid of as much pollen as possible. You also should keep your car windows up during allergy season.
- Treat your allergy. A board-certified clinician at RediClinic can recommend a variety of over-the-counter and prescription medications to relieve your allergy symptoms, including nebulizer breathing treatments.
Symptoms of seasonal hay fever often start in the spring, but allergy sufferers don’t have to look any further than their local RediClinic for allergy relief.
We Treat Adults & Children
Adults and children age 18 months and older can visit a RediClinic walk-in medical clinic seven days a week, with no appointment needed. For more information about clinic locations, hours of operation and services, visit www.rediclinic.com.
