Spring is in full swing at this point, so hopefully you’re getting opportunities to get outside. That said, it can be difficult to enjoy camping, hiking, swinging in the hammock or swimming in Smith Lake if you suffer from seasonal allergies. Here are our tips for dealing with allergy symptoms while still getting outside.
Allergens Around Here
The environment around Huntsville and North Alabama is filled with common allergens, such as grass pollen, weed pollen and insects. This can be a nightmare for the 25% of American adults with seasonal allergies. Grass pollen is an especially common allergen, and grass grows prolifically everywhere.
Do you know what allergens trigger your symptoms? If not, consider an allergy test to confirm. Knowing what specifically is causing your discomfort can help a lot in avoiding it.
Clean Any Gear That’s Been in Storage
Many outdoor activities, such as camping or hiking, have specialized gear that’s been in storage this whole time. Basements and garages are common storage areas, but they’re also spots where mold can grow. So, before you take your tent, hammock or hiking clothes out to the wilderness, make sure you clean them thoroughly with hot water to remove any mold.
Prevent Exposure to Allergens
While you’re outside, try to mitigate your exposure to potential allergens whenever possible. For example, if you have a grass allergy, set up your tent somewhere less grassy, or if you have a dust allergy, look for hiking trails that are rocky or paved to avoid kicked-up dust while you walk.
You can also cover up to minimize contact with allergens. Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, a mask and sunglasses. If you have an allergy to insect bites or stings, definitely wear long sleeves and use plenty of bug spray.
Pack Hypoallergenic and Other Allergy-Friendly Gear
Some equipment can be incredibly beneficial for preventing contact with allergens. Hypoallergenic tents, sleeping bags, sleeping pads and pillows are available to keep your sleeping area clear. You should also consider a portable HEPA filter to manage air quality around you.
Use Over-the-Counter Medications
Before and during your outdoor excursion, you can use over-the-counter (OTC) medications to help prevent and relieve symptoms. Antihistamines, such as Claritin or Zyrtec, are a very popular option; you take these daily, and they build up in your system to block the chemicals in your body that cause allergy symptoms. If you’re already showing symptoms and need a quick relief, nasal sprays, eye drops and decongestants will help. Make sure you bring all these things with you when exploring.
Allergies shouldn’t mean that you miss out on everything that Northern Alabama has to offer. This is a beautiful area with plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures. We hope these tips help you get outside, and if you have any questions or need to consult an allergist about your symptoms, call us at North Alabama ENT Associates.