It’s allergy season and we here at Plowz & Mowz come bearing relief for you all! We all know the pain… trying to stay cool in the hot summer but- is leaving the window open all night worth it when you wake up feeling so lousy? Don’t worry, we won’t tell you to lock yourself inside and hide from the menacing pollen. Instead, we’ll provide you with some precautions you can take to make allergy season easier than ever to get through. Follow this Allergy Guide for ways to not just survive, but thrive!
1. Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies
Feeling sick and stuffy in the spring or summer? It’s not as uncommon as you may think! First of all… let’s figure out if you’re suffering from seasonal allergies. The most common symptoms of allergies are runny nose, congestion, watery-or itchy eyes, itchy skin, rashes and hives, fatigue and swelling. Some people may experience shortness of breath and wheezing, as well. Sounds fun, right?
2. You Don’t Have to Avoid the Outdoors
Pollen is the #1 trigger for allergies and the more you keep it off of you, the less it can hurt you. Try to spend time outside midday when the pollen in the air is less prominent, or when it’s cloudy and windless outside. You can actually look up pollen levels outside to see when the best time in your area is! If you do take an allergy medicine, take it at the start of your day or before leaving the house! Change your clothing or shower after being outside for any period of time. Do the same with any pets you have- pollen doesn’t just love sticking to people!
3. Mow the Lawn
Not only is cleaning your house important to help with your allergies but outside is also very important! The more frequently your lawn is mowed, the less your allergy symptoms will occur. We recommend mowing once a week to keep the grass short and from pollinating! Although pollinating does help fertilize the yard, many people are allergic to it. If you must mow the lawn, be sure to wear a hat, glasses, and even a mask if you can. Grass can be one of the most common causes of allergies. Also, it is important to weed and trim up the garden and bushes surrounding the house to help cut back on the amount of pollen in the yard. However, you’ll suffer less if a family member or friend (or us) does the job for you!
4. Clean The Inside
Of course, don’t forget about the inside of your home! It’s likely that you’ll be spending more time inside than outside. Allergens like pollen, dust, and mold can hide all over your home. Be sure to dust frequently and wash your bedding as frequently as possible! Vacuuming your mattress each time you replace your bedding will also lessen the chance of dust mites hanging around. If you have a headboard, make sure you clean it at least once a week! Don’t forget about dusting! Make sure you dust all of the cracks and crevasses hiding in your home. We recommend focusing on the top of the fridge, curtains, stairways, in the corners of the floor, under the bed, all lights and especially mirrors and windows. Windows and window sills attract the most dust because that’s the source of sunlight into the home. Also, to stay cool, opt for a fan if you don’t already have air conditioning, but be sure to wipe down the fan frequently so that you can keep all windows and doors closed while you’re inside. Basically, keep pollen out!
5. Take a Break
This might be the most important one. Don’t work yourself too hard! We know that seasonal allergies will wear you down, so be sure to take extra good care of yourself and give yourself enough time to rest and recharge. Treat yourself to a warm, healthy meal and make an effort to get to bed a couple of hours earlier than usual. Who wants to suffer from allergies, stress, and sleep deprivation all at once? Remember to breathe and stay positive.
