Seasonal allergies are incredibly common; in Canada, it’s estimated that 20 to 25 percent of Canadians are affected by allergies each year. At the same time, 80% of people with asthma suffer from allergies. While these conditions seem unrelated, many of the same allergens that trigger allergic symptoms like runny nose or itchy eyes can also cause asthma flare-ups.
If you suffer from seasonal allergies and have noticed your symptoms getting worse over the years, it’s not just you. Research suggests that the indirect effects of climate change can make things harder for those with seasonal allergies. With milder winters, plants begin to pollinate earlier in the year, and increased rainfall, as opposed to snowfall, breaks up pollen more easily. The higher humidity levels also allow certain allergens like weeds, molds and dust to thrive.
If you have seasonal allergies or know someone who struggles with them, entering spring with a game plan can make the change in seasons less stressful.
- Know your allergies: the first step to overcoming allergy season is to know your triggers. There are many types of allergens, like mold, ragweed, and tree pollens, each with different peaks in timing throughout the year. An allergist can help you determine what your allergens are by doing tests, such as a skin prick test or a blood test.
- Monitor pollen counts: pollen counts measure the amount of pollen in the air throughout the day. Many weather station websites, such as The Weather Network, provide a snapshot of estimated pollen counts, broken down by pollen type, that are constantly being updated. When pollen counts are high, stay indoors when possible and instead go out when they’re lower.
- Minimizing your exposure: while you’re out and about, you should avoid the following to minimize your allergen exposure:
- Driving with your windows rolled down
- Gardening activities like lawn mowing or weed pulling without wearing a mask
- Hanging laundry outside
- Setting your car A/C to fresh air, instead of recirculation
- Keeping your home allergen-free: because allergens like pollen and mold are invisible, it can be challenging to keep in mind how they can enter our homes. Try these tips to keep your home allergen-free:
- Turn on the air conditioner, as it helps filter out outdoor allergens and keeps humidity levels in check
- Keep your windows closed, especially when pollen counts are high
- Change your home’s air filters at least every 3 months
- Remove airborne allergens using HEPA air filters and air purifiers
- Wash your hair and clothing (and for your pets) shortly after returning home to remove pollen
- Wash linens and other bedding in hot water frequently
- Use the right medications at the right time: allergy medications come in all different forms, ranging from allergy eye drops to pills to nasal sprays. Depending on your symptoms, some medications may work better than others or can be taken less often. Many medications are also more effective when started a few weeks before allergy season. Talk to your pharmacist if you’re looking to improve your allergy medication routine or if you’re struggling with your symptoms.
All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2025. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/healthfeature/gethealthfeature/Allergies-and-Asthma-Tips-for-Springtime-Sniffles