With the spring allergy season underway, it's important to do whatever you can do ensure that you remain healthy and comfortable. One way you can do that is by avoiding these common mistakes:
Spending too much time around your triggers – If you can, try to stay away from the irritants that are ailing you. This may mean keeping your windows shut when pollen counts are particularly high or using a dehumidifier to reduce the presence of mold.
Treating your symptoms blindly – While it's tempting to purchase one of the hundreds of over-the-counter products that promises to eliminate symptoms like sneezing, itching and watery eyes, in most cases this is nothing more than a waste of money. Your best bet is to see an allergist who can help you determine exactly what you're allergic to and how to ease and prevent the negative reactions you're having.
Waiting too long to see an allergist – Doctors suggest being proactive when it comes to managing your symptoms this season. The earlier you treat the problem, the better off you'll be. "Allergies create an inflammatory response that is like a smoldering fire. If you can keep it smoldering rather than flaring, you'll do a lot better," allergy expert Dr. James Sublett told WebMD. "By starting your medications early, you're less likely to have a snowball effect with your symptoms."
With all this information in mind, it's a good idea for allergy sufferers to take the proper steps to minimize their symptoms. In addition to steering clear of common mistakes, you may want to consider investing in a whole house air purifier, which removes allergens directly from the air.
