Laurel Wakefield Wayne Pierce Neligh Tilden Wisner NORFOLK Battle Creek Humphrey TIPS FOR CONQUERING POLLEN ALLERGIES When you’re allergic to something in the air, it’s hard to get away from it. That’s what it’s like for the millions of people with seasonal allergies, also known as hay fever. Every spring, summer and fall, plants release tiny pollen grains into the air to fertilize their companion plants. Most of the allergy-causing pollen comes from trees, weeds and grasses. Once that pollen hits the air, it may trigger symptoms such as: • A runny or stuffy nose. • Itchy eyes, nose, ears and mouth. • Red and watery eyes. • Swelling around the eyes. • Sneezing. • Wheezing. Beat back pollen If you think you may have pollen allergies, your first step should be to see your primary care provider (PCP). A skin prick or blood test can help reveal the exact pollens triggering your allergies. Your PCP can prescribe medications to relieve symptoms or recommend allergy shots to train your body not to react to the allergens. In the meantime, try these tips to lessen your exposure to pollen and reduce your risk of a reaction: • If possible, start taking your allergy medicine two to four weeks before allergy season, which starts in March. • Try not to spend too much time outside when pollen counts are high. • Wear sunglasses and a hat when you are outside to help keep pollen out of your eyes and off your hair. • Keep windows closed at home and in your car during pollen season. • Dry your clothes in a clothes dryer and not on an outdoor clothesline. Sneezin’ wheezin’? “Pollen allergies can be overwhelming. You can take simple measures to relieve symptoms and regain control of your life, not letting seasonal allergies get in the way.” —Chandra Ponniah, MD, Family Medicine Need a primary care provider? Visit frhs.org/find-a-doctor to find a provider at one of our 10 family medicine locations. & FRHS.ORG 11
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