Allergies are among the most frustrating things to deal with each fall. When ragweed season starts, it seems like there’s no end to the sneezing, itchy eyes, and coughing. If you have asthma, these symptoms become all the worse since you will be unable to breathe.
This is particularly concerning because some of your allergy symptoms might seem like symptoms of COVID-19.
“With COVID-19 in the mix and some of the symptoms overlapping [including congestion, runny nose, headaches and throat irritation], it’s especially important this year to have your preventive allergy treatment plan in place,” explains allergist Dr. Rachna Shah. “Often, when people are feeling well, they will become more lax about following their treatment plans.”
Amidst the pandemic, however, we might still encounter the occasional cold. Despite COVID-19 being at the top of everyone’s minds, Americans still get about one billion colds each year. Along with cleaning regularly, protecting your home against allergens is key in keeping you healthy.
One of the best ways to combat fall allergies is by prepping your home against them. After all, your home should be a place of comfort and solace. While you’re always going to have to face fall allergies, preparing your home for the worst of it can help mitigate the worst of your symptoms.
Here are some of the best ways you can alter your home to stop fall allergies in its tracks.
Dust and Vacuum Often
Ragweed is one of the worst allergens in the fall, but dust is a close second. Since we’re spending more time indoors, more dust will accumulate in our homes. If you’re not dusting your surfaces often, reacting to dust on top of all the other fall allergens can make your symptoms that much worse. Since many of us are turning on our heating systems for the first time in a while, you should also watch out for dust from your ductwork.
You should also take a gander at your roofing. Many allergens, like mold and pollen, seep into our homes through gaps in our roofs and insulation. That’s why it’s important to replace your roof every 30-40 years. If your roof is getting old, now might be the perfect time to get a replacement. Your energy bills — and your allergies — will thank you.
It’s also important to vacuum frequently since many allergens are brought into your home on your shoes and clothing. In fact, it’s recommended that you change your clothes into a cleaner option when you’re finally home for the night. This will prevent allergens from irritating you when you’re not going outside anymore.
Be Wary of Flowery Fall Gifts
One of the best things you can do is gift someone a bouquet of flowers. In fact, as many as 86% of people claim that receiving flowers makes them feel special. Unfortunately, these gorgeous gifts might make your allergies act up.
Do some research or visit an allergist if you think you’re allergic to flowers. Poinsettias, sage, and chrysanthemums are all popular flowers for the fall. Be sure to get rid of them as soon as you start having an allergic reaction.
That said, many plants actually purify indoor air. From a single plant to a full living wall, introducing air-purifying plants to your home can help improve its overall air quality.
Invest in an Air Purifier
Regular green cleaning can prevent the worst of your fall allergies, but it can’t do it all. After all, countless allergens travel by air. You won’t be able to stop those allergens from impacting you until they rest on a cleanable surface. To prevent allergens in the air from ruining your fall, why not invest in an air purifier?
Air purifiers come in a range of different sizes for your home. Larger models are ideal for common areas like the living room. On the other hand, smaller, energy-efficient models are perfect for the bedroom. Just be sure to replace the filter often so you can revel in cleaner air this fall.
Coping with fall allergies is more than just stressful: it can be infuriating. Take better care of your health by relying on these allergy-saving tips.
Image credit: Jakob Owens via Adobe Spark
