Allergy Season tips for outdoor activities

Here are some practical allergy season tips for enjoying outdoor activities while minimizing discomfort:

🌳 Before You Go Outside

1. Check the pollen forecast: Use apps or websites (like Weather.com or Pollen.com) to see daily pollen counts. Avoid outdoor activities when counts are high.
2. Take allergy meds early: Antihistamines or nasal sprays work best when taken before symptoms begin, ideally 30 minutes to an hour before heading out.
3. Apply a barrier: A thin layer of petroleum jelly around nostrils can help trap pollen before it enters your nose.
4. Wear sunglasses & a wide-brimmed hat: These help shield your eyes and face from airborne allergens.

🏃‍♀️ While You’re Outdoors

1. Pick the right time: Pollen levels are typically lowest after rain and highest in the early morning (5–10 a.m.) and on dry, windy days.
2. Choose locations wisely:
   • Avoid grassy fields and heavily wooded trails during peak pollen times.
   • Opt for beaches or urban parks with fewer flowering plants.
3. Use a mask: A lightweight N95 mask can filter out most allergens during high-pollen days, especially while gardening or hiking.

🚿 After Outdoor Activities

1. Change clothes immediately: Pollen sticks to fabric. Leave outdoor clothing in a designated laundry area.
2. Shower & wash your hair: This removes pollen from your skin and hair to prevent it from transferring to pillows or furniture.
3. Rinse nasal passages: Using a saline spray or neti pot can flush out allergens trapped in your nose.

Bonus Tips 🌼

• Keep windows closed in your car and home during high-pollen days.
• Use air purifiers with HEPA filters to reduce indoor allergen levels.
• Keep pets groomed—they can track in pollen on their fur.