Allergy Menu
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Pollens are the fertilizing agents of flowering plants, including trees, grasses, and weeds. Different pollens are abundant at different times of the year. Your physician can gather many clues to your sensitivity by asking at which time of the year you are most troubled by allergies. Weeds generally pollinate in the fall, whereas trees and grasses pollinate in the spring.
Not all pollens cause reactions. Pine tree pollen, for instance, doesn't seem to be a problem, whereas poplar, beech, and oak pollens are common instigators.
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Guidelines for Pollen Avoidance
Pollen poses difficulties in terms of control, but the following guidelines will help:
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- Avoid, if you can, going outdoors on days when pollen counts are high, namely dry, windy days, late evenings, and early mornings.
- Close all windows, especially when you sleep. The allergy sufferer should occupy a cool room, so that the bedroom window(s) can be kept closed.
- Air conditioning decreases indoor pollen counts if it recirculates indoor air instead of drawing in outside air.
- Fans in the attic or other rooms may aggravate the problem by drawing in outside air with high pollen counts.
- Keep car windows closed during trips to the country. If possible, have air conditioning in the car.
- Don't plant a lot of trees and shrubs around your house.
- Shower and shampoo after coming in from outdoors. Put on fresh clothing after you shower.
- Eliminate weeds by uprooting them and/or using weed killers.
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- Avoid plants related to ragweed. These include: mums,
- zinnias, dahlias, and sunflowers.
- Consider installing an electronic/electrostatic furnace
- filter and an air purifier.
- Check your weather network, newspaper, or national allergy bureau for pollen forecasts (1-800-9-POLLEN).
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If you are going to drive and want nondrowsy allergy relief, read the package insert of your allergy medication. If your allergy medication cautions you about driving while under its influence, then it probably is not nondrowsy.
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