What Not to Do When You Have Seasonal Allergies

For some, spring is a season of sunny skies and rejuvenation. For others, it can be an allergy nightmare. All the sneezing, coughing, and itchy, watery eyes can drive a person crazy! So how can you embrace the changing season without wanting to crawl back into bed? Here are a few tips for what not to do when you have seasonal allergies.

• Stay inside. Unless asthma is worsening your symptoms, you don’t have to call in sick or stay inside all day. An over-the-counter allergy treatment should help you manage your symptoms or ask your doctor about prescription eye drops or nasal sprays. When you do venture outside, wearing glasses and a hat can help stave off allergen exposure. And when you head back home, change out of clothes worn outdoors.
• Eat soup. Even though chicken soup works wonders for the common cold, allergies are based on inflammation, not infection. The most beneficial part of hot soup or tea is actually breathing in the steam, which helps with tender sinuses. Instead, try a humidifier with cool mist or air purifying capabilities.
• Skip the doctor. An allergy specialist can help determine the cause of your allergies. Using a series of shots (called immunotherapy), the allergist can figure out what triggers symptoms and build up your tolerance to them. Ask your doctor to see if this type of treatment is right for you.

Is asthma making your allergy symptoms even worse? MyBlue^® can be extra helpful during allergy season. Don’t forget to check out our Asthma Management Resources to help manage your condition.