How to combat seasonal allergies

Spring has sprung, and with the warmer weather come runny noses, congestion, and itchy, watery eyes for those who suffer from seasonal allergies. But you can still enjoy the sunshine by taking steps to reduce your symptoms.

Identify your triggers

“A lot of different things can cause allergies for different people,” says Pam Kraft, APRN-CNP, a certified nurse practitioner with Kettering Health. “The most common spring allergies are grass, trees, blooming plant pollens, and molds. It can also be allergies like dust or dust mites inside the home.”

Pinpointing your allergens can help you limit your exposure to them. Keep a diary of when you experience symptoms and what you were doing before and during that time. Look for patterns to help you recognize your triggers.

Reduce exposure

If you’re experiencing symptoms outside

Limit your time outdoors.

Keep windows and doors closed. The breeze can carry allergens like grass, pollen and mold into your home.

If your allergies flare inside

If dust is a trigger, try dusting, vacuuming, and washing your bedding to cut down on dust mites in your home.

Wear a mask if symptoms are serious, especially when cleaning.

Talk to your doctor

Over-the-counter antihistamines can help minimize symptoms, but you should consult a medical provider if you’re on other medications or if you’ve tried over-the-counter medications and symptoms persist.

“Thereareseveraltreatment options available,” Pam says, “and we are here to help.”

If you don’t have a primary care provider, find one at

or call

“A lot of different things can cause allergies for different people. The most common spring allergies are grass, trees, blooming plant pollens, and molds. It can also be allergies like dust or dust mites inside the home.”

A NOTE TO OUR READERS

Dear Dayton community, You might have noticed this columnnowhasaname:“Your Best Health Now.”

The coronavirus pandemic that has affected our lives for more than a year has brought health and wellness to the forefrontofeveryone’sminds.Both as individuals and members of our communities, we are more conscious of how important strong health is, and how our state of health affects not only our own lives, but also the lives of those around us.

Thiscolumnhasalwaysbeen a place where you can find reliable, up-to-date information to help you make informed decisions about your health — and that’s not changing. Each week, we offer guidance that enables you to live your best life through whole-person health for your body, mind and spirit. Whether it’s symptoms and treatments of common illnesses, tips for incorporating healthier habits into your lifestyle, or disease prevention and emergency preparedness, we’ll keep providing knowledge to help you achieve your best health now.

Pam Kraft, APRN-CNP, certified nurse practitioner with Kettering Health