Springtime is beautiful in Charleston, but that also means it's the start of pollen season. If you're one of the millions of people who suffer from allergies, you know all too well the misery that pollen can cause. Runny nose, itchy eyes, sneezing, and coughing are just a few of the symptoms that can make it difficult to enjoy the beautiful weather.
But don't despair! There are a number of things you can do to relieve your pollen allergy symptoms and enjoy the springtime weather in Charleston. In this blog post, we will share some easy tips for surviving pollen season in the Lowcountry.
Tips for Relieving Pollen Allergy Symptoms:
1. Avoid being outside during peak pollen times.
Pollen levels are usually highest in the morning and evening. If possible, try to avoid being outside during these times. If you do have to go outside, check the pollen forecast before you go. This will give you an idea of how high the pollen levels are expected to be.
2. Wear sunglasses and a hat.
Wearing sunglasses and a hat can help to protect your eyes and skin from pollen. Pollen can irritate your eyes and skin, and it can also make your allergies worse. If you are going to be spending time in an area with a lot of pollen, such as a park or garden, wear long sleeves and pants to protect your skin.
3. Change your clothes and shower after being outside.
Pollen can get on your clothes and skin, so it's important to change your clothes and shower after being outside. This will help to remove any pollen that may be on your body.
4. Keep your home clean.
Vacuum and dust regularly to remove pollen from your home. You may also want to consider using an air purifier to help remove pollen from the air. If you have pets, be sure to brush them regularly to remove any pollen that may be on their fur.
5. Use a nasal saline spray.
A nasal saline spray can help to flush out pollen and other allergens from your nasal passages. This can help to relieve congestion, sneezing, and a runny nose. Saline sprays do not contain any medication, so they are safe to use routinely for people of all ages.
6. Take an over-the-counter allergy medication.
Over-the-counter allergy medications, such as Zyrtec, Claritin, and Allegra, can help to relieve the symptoms of pollen allergies. Once you start experiencing symptoms, take the medication as soon as possible. These medications work by blocking the effects of histamine, a chemical that your body releases in response to allergens. This helps to relieve your symptoms and prevent them from getting worse.
7. Get allergy shots.
Allergy shots, also known as immunotherapy, can help to reduce your allergy symptoms over time. Allergy shots work by exposing you to small amounts of the allergens that you are allergic to. This helps your body to build up a tolerance to the allergens.
As many natives know, South Carolina can be a tough state to be in for people with allergies. The good news is, pollen doesn’t have to ruin your outdoor fun in Charleston. By following these tips, you can relieve your allergy symptoms and enjoy the beautiful weather.
If you have severe allergies, or if your symptoms are not relieved by over-the-counter medications, you may want to see an allergist. An allergist can help you to identify the allergens that you are allergic to and develop a treatment plan that is right for you.
Allergy Specialists Near You:
- Charleston Allergy and Asthma - 5000 Epson Plantation Dr, Moncks Corner, SC 29461
- National Allergy & ENT - 7555 Northside Dr, North Charleston, SC 29420
- Charleston ENT & Allergy - 2005 2nd Ave, Summerville, SC 29486