Hay Fever Prevention

The best way to alleviate your symptoms of allergic rhinitis is to avoid exposure to allergens. There are numerous actions that you can take to stay away from allergic rhinitis allergens.

For Hay Fever

Avoid:

• Outdoor activities during pollen seasons associated with the plant life in your area (trees in the spring, grasses in the summer, ragweed in early fall)
• Mowing the lawn or raking leaves.
• Open fields or construction sites.
• Hanging laundry outside.

Do:

• Avoid peak exposure time to allergens—usually the early morning.
• During high pollen and ragweed seasons, wear a dust mask when performing outdoor activities.
• Keep the window closed and use the air conditioner in your car.
• Close windows and doors to your home and use the air conditioner during pollen season.
• Keep your indoor environment as allergen-free as possible by using air filters, disinfectants, bleach, etc.
• Consider moving to a different area with fewer or none of your allergens.

For Perennial Allergic Rhinitis

Avoid:

• Cats, if you have a known issue with dander.
• Allowing pets in the bedroom.
• Carpets and pieces of upholstered furniture in your home, especially in your bedroom.
• Stuffed animals or other stuffed toys out of the bedroom.

Do:

• Control the humidity and temperature of your home—dry and cool is the goal.
• Use an air purifier with a HEPA filter.
• Clean and wash any items you live with or wear that could harbor allergens such as dust mites and mold spores.
• Wash dishes and empty garbage daily.
• Store all food in sealed containers.
• Get all pipes and faucets checked for leaks.
• Wash beddings every week with hot water.
• User allergen-proof covers on your bed and pillows.
• Bathe pets regularly – weekly if possible.