Zeeshan Khakwani, M.D., FACP
Ahh, spring: Birds are chirping, trees are blooming, and seasonal allergies are in full swing — bringing symptoms that can be downright irritating, especially in Richmond, considered one of the allergy capitals of the United States.
Tired of itchy, watery eyes, stuffy nose, post-nasal drip, throat irritation, sneezing and cough? You’re not alone.
“Managing seasonal allergies is crucial for improving quality of life,” said Zeeshan Khakwani, M.D., FACP, of Pulmonary Associates of Richmond. Khakwani offered the following tips for getting some relief.
1. Limit time outdoors
Seasonal allergies vary from day to day. On high pollen count days, limit exposure to the outdoors — especially first thing in the morning. If you must be outside for long periods of time, Khakwani suggests taking precautions. “When doing yard work, wearing a regular surgical mask offers significant protection against seasonal allergens,” he said. In a pinch, a scarf or bandanna can be used to cover the nose and mouth.
2. Leave pollen where it belongs
After spending time outdoors, change your clothes. “Those individuals with significant allergies should also take a shower to remove all the pollen stuck to their bodies and hair,” said Khakwani. When possible, contain outdoor clothing to an entryway or mudroom — and launder as soon as possible — to further prevent the spread of pollen indoors.
3. Decrease exposure indoors
Pollen can be equally pesky indoors and out. Keep windows and doors shut tight during high pollen count days (especially if it’s windy!), and use HEPA air filters. “Change them regularly to make sure they are working and doing their job properly,” said Khakwani. A general rule of thumb: Anytime fine, yellow dust is visible on windowsills and car windshields, the pollen count is likely high.
4. Keep your home clean
Household pets, especially dogs, can carry pollen on their bodies and bring it into the house. “Take care to wash your pet thoroughly, including their feet, if they have been spending a lot of time outside,” said Khakwani. Ditto for vacuuming regularly and changing bed linens — at least once each week — to keep pollen and dust mites at bay.
5. Be proactive
Get curious about the local pollen count! The National Allergy Bureau is a trusted source of information. Visit their website to find out about current pollen counts in your area, view the local allergen report and sign up for email alerts to let you know when levels change.
“There are many small things you can do [to decrease seasonal allergy symptoms],” Khakwani said. On the road, he suggests using the car’s air circulator to decrease exposure to pollen while driving. And, while allergies can develop at any time, most appear by age 5 depending on an individual’s exposures. “Growing up on a farm or having pets at home during the first six months of life is actually protective against allergies,” said Khakwani. Now that’s nothing to sneeze at.
For more information, please visit paraccess.com.
