Every allergy sufferer knows how important allergy avoidance is to minimize the frequency of their reactions. An allergic reaction is nobody’s idea of a good time. It can be a distraction from what you are trying to do at work or school and can get in the way of resting and enjoyment.
It can be difficult to eliminate all exposure to your allergens, however, this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try. Below are the allergist’s tips on how to reduce your exposure to allergens.
Ways To Avoid Allergen Exposure
- Keep your home as clean as possible. Dust mites are a common trigger for many people with allergies. To reduce the population in your home, vacuum regularly and use dust-proof covers for bedding and furniture.
- Use an air conditioner in your home and car, and keep the windows closed as much as possible during allergy season. This will help filter out pollen and other airborne allergens.
- Avoid pet dander by keeping pets out of the bedroom and off upholstered furniture.
- Be aware of the daily pollen count and plan your day accordingly. It is not always possible to stay indoors when the pollen count is high, however, being aware of the pollen count can help you take steps to reduce your exposure to pollen.
- Shower or bathe after being outdoors, especially on windy days. Pollen activity is usually highest during the morning, so wear sunglasses when outside during the daytime to protect your eyes from pollen.
- Ragweed pollen is a common trigger during late summer and early fall. To reduce exposure, stay indoors as much as possible when ragweed counts are high, keep windows closed, and use an air conditioner at home and in the car.
- Wear a dust mask or respirator if you have to be outside when pollen levels are high. The type of mask that you are probably used to seeing – the N95 – can help filter out allergens such as pollen.
- Many people are allergic to mold spores, which are found both indoors and outdoors year–round but tend to peak in late summer/early fall due to warmer temperatures and increased humidity levels favoring mold growth. Here are some things you can do: keep indoor humidity below 50% (use a dehumidifier if needed), ventilate showers, bathrooms, and cooking areas well, fix leaks promptly, dry wet areas quickly, and discard damp rags, towels, and other materials where mold could grow.
If you suspect you may have allergies, it is important to take action. Identify your specific triggers with the help of a doctor, so you can avoid them. The best way to know your triggers is to undergo allergy testing, which is provided by an allergist or allergy doctor. After testing, you can work with an allergist to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that includes allergen avoidance strategies.
Experienced Allergist in Georgetown, TX
Dr. Scott William Franklin of Georgetown ENT is double-board certified in otolaryngology and sleep medicine, which makes him uniquely qualified to treat allergies and sleep issues. Dr. Franklin and the rest of the team provide comprehensive care, from allergy testing to treatment, and educating patients on how to reduce their exposure to triggers. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Franklin, call our office today at (512) 869-0604 or use our convenient online request form.
