ATLANTA — Springtime is here, and along with it arrives a yellow powdery substance that coats cars, the ground, and us—pollen.
For the lucky people, it's just a nuisance, but for those with allergies, it's the start of a seasonal war. According to Atlanta Allergy and Asthma and Cedars-Sinai, here are some ways to keep pollen out of your home and nostrils this Spring.
Tips for Surviving High-Pollen Days
Indoor Management:
- Keep windows closed and utilize air conditioning on recycled settings to minimize pollen entry into your home or car.
- Regularly change or clean air filters to maintain clean indoor air quality.
- Shower before bed or upon returning home to remove pollen from hair, clothes, and skin.
- Wear sunglasses or glasses to shield your eyes from pollen exposure.
- Remove shoes before entering your home to prevent tracking pollen indoors.
- Clean indoor pets' paws and fur with a damp cloth to remove pollen they may carry inside.
Outdoor Activity Adjustment:
- Schedule outdoor activities before noon when pollen levels are typically lower.
- Take allergy medication proactively before heading outdoors rather than waiting for symptoms to arise.
- Monitor daily pollen counts; 11Alive posts a pollen count daily on YouTube and adjusts outdoor plans accordingly.
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Medical Consultation and Treatment:
- Seek diagnosis and personalized treatment plans from a board-certified allergist to identify specific allergens triggering symptoms.
Year-Round Allergy Management Tips
Effective Cleaning Practices:
- Dust strategically from top to bottom using damp microfiber cloths to trap dust particles.
- Clean ceiling fans, blinds, and curtains regularly to prevent dust accumulation.
Air Filtration Optimization:
- Ensure existing air filters are clean and appropriate for their designated use in air conditioning units or central HVAC systems.
- Consider adding HEPA air filters to standalone units or central systems, matching CADR to room size for effective filtration.
Pillow and Bed Maintenance:
- Use washable pillowcase dust covers and launder them every three weeks.
- Clean pillows and mattresses regularly to minimize dust mite accumulation.
- Utilize dust covers for mattresses and clean bed frames and headboards to reduce allergen buildup.
Minimizing Pollen Entering the Home:
- Keep windows closed when using air conditioning to prevent pollen infiltration.
- Establish a shoe-free policy indoors and use mats for wiping feet to reduce pollen transfer.
- Maintain cool indoor temperatures to deter humidity, which fosters mold and dust mites.
Invest in Quality Vacuuming Equipment:
- Opt for bagless vacuums with HEPA filters for efficient dust removal.
- Prefer hard floors over carpeting whenever possible for easier cleaning and reduced allergen retention.