How to Survive Allergy Season with Asthma

The fall allergy season is here and for those of us with asthma, things are that much trickier. But by taking some simple precautions, you can make this season a lot more pleasant.

  1. Take Your Nebulizer Treatments Regularly

If you know allergy season will set off your asthma, it’s better to take medication before your allergies go crazy than to wait until you’re miserable. Also, if you don’t regularly carry your nebulizer or inhaler you may want to consider doing so during this season, just in case.

  2. Keep Your Windows Closed

Breathing in pollen and other allergens when outside is unavoidable, but by keeping your windows closed you can at least keep them out of your home. This may also be a good time to change your air filters.

  3. Wash Your Bed Sheets and Clothes Extra

Pollens like to sneak into your house by sticking to your clothes. From there, they’ll stick to bedding, rugs, couches, etc. To keep pollen accumulation to a minimum, shower before bed and wash your bed sheets and clothes a little extra. You can also try using an allergy care bed cover, to keep allergens out of your mattress, box spring, and pillows.

  4. Clean Your Pets

If you have pets, especially ones that play outside, they’re probably going to get covered in pollen and other allergens. This makes allergy season a particularly good time to give your pet a bath.

  5. Go Outdoors at Optimal Times

You shouldn’t let your asthma control your life. But if some simple rescheduling can help you feel better, why not? Pollen counts are at their highest between 5 and 10am. So maybe try going on evening walks instead of morning walks. Also, rains help lower the pollen accumulation in the air so during or after rainy days may be another good time to enjoy the outdoors.