Changing colors and falling leaves aren’t the only things that symbolize the changing of seasons. For some, it’s also the onslaught of itchy eyes, a runny nose and nonstop sneezing. Welcome to fall allergies.
While you can’t control the pollen count, there are some basic things you can do at home to help curb the symptoms of seasonal allergies. Besides consulting your doctor and finding the right medications for you, follow these simple steps to help keep those allergy symptoms at bay.
- Take off your shoes. By leaving your shoes at the door before enter your home, you can help keep all that dirt, debris and pollen where it should be – outside.
- Wipe down your pets. Dogs, in particular, are magnets for pollen. Make a habit of wiping down your pet’s fur before they come inside.
- Wash your hair before bed. Human hair can also collect pollen throughout the day, so by washing your hair before bedtime, those allergens won’t find a home on your pillow.
- Close windows. Yes, it feels so good outside when the temperatures begin to cool. But all that fresh air coming in brings with it the very things you’re allergic to. Especially on high-pollen days, close your windows and turn on the inside air.
- Recirculate air in your vehicle. As with your home, it feels great to have that fresh air coming through your car windows, but you’ll feel better if you keep the windows closed. Use the air conditioner, close the vent, and recirculate the air.
- Change filters. Make sure to change the filters in your air conditioner and furnace regularly, as recommended by the manufacturer.
- Schedule regular maintenance. Even if your filters are nice and clean, if your air conditioner and heating isn’t functioning at peak performance (or if your air ducts need cleaning), unwanted allergens will still be circulating within the home. Schedule regular service and have your air ducts cleaned.
- Control indoor humidity. If you are allergic to spores from mold, you need to ensure that the humidity levels within your home are lower than 60% (minimum). You may need a dehumidifier, which can get that level lower than 50%.
- Check pollen counts. Pay attention to your local pollen count, which is usually reported on weather forecasts or online. Try to schedule outdoor activities on low-count days, and wear sunglasses to help block pollen from your eyes.
- Plant accordingly. Although airborne pollens can travel hundreds of miles from where they came from, you can still make a dent in your immediate surroundings by removing those plants that affect you. And if freshly cut grass is one of your allergy enemies, it’s well worth it to hire someone else to mow and landscape.
- Use the dryer. Sure, hanging your linens and clothes outside to dry can save you energy and make everything smell fresh, but pollen loves to settle on all fabric and hitch a ride indoors. Resist the urge, and use your dryer to finish the job.
Get Ready for Fall
While we can’t help with your fall allergies, we can clean your air ducts and make sure your indoor air is as clean as possible. Give us a call at 317-585-8981 and schedule an appointment today.
