Tips for Coping with Fall Allergies in Dallas, Texas

The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America recently ranked Dallas, Texas number 33 on its list of the top 100 fall allergy capitals. Using medication and avoiding allergens are the two best methods for coping with fall allergies. Pay attention to when allergy symptoms occur and take steps to avoid triggers. A series of simple choices can mean the difference between being miserable and functioning normally.

Try these tips to manage seasonal allergies this fall.

Use medication to manage seasonal allergies.
From eye drops to generic pills to nasal sprays, there are many options for treating seasonal allergies. Prevent or reduce allergy symptoms by using over-the-counter or prescription drugs. Be sure to read the label warnings and check with a physician because some medications and conditions, such as high blood pressure, require special consideration.

Avoid going al fresco at home or in the car.
Much-anticipated fall weather offers a reprieve from summer's expensive cooling bills, but allergy sufferers need to think twice before opening doors and windows for fresh air. Those cool breezes can also carry allergens indoors. Consider using the blower on the central air unit instead. It uses less power than the A/C and circulating air passes through a filter.

The same goes for cooling the car.

Leave allergens at the door.
Removing shoes at the front door or entryway helps keep pollen out of the home. Changing clothes and showering after outdoor activities can also keep allergens from spreading throughout the home.

Vacuum regularly.
Use a vacuum with a good filtration system. If possible, have someone else do the vacuuming and discard the bag or empty the canister when it is full. Otherwise, wear a dust mask to avoid exposure to irritants.

Make your bedroom a haven.
While it is helpful to reduce allergens in the home, it is essential to keep the bedroom free of allergens. In addition to regularly cleaning and washing linens, an air purifier filters allergens and helps create a comfortable environment for sleeping.

Large air purifiers can be an investment, but smaller units work fine for a single room. There are affordable options with prices starting at $40. (Consider the cost of replacement filters when comparing prices.)

Watch local pollen counts.
Juniper, cedar and ragweed are common fall allergens in Dallas. Local weather reports and websites, such as pollen.com, provide an allergy forecast and list which allergens are high for the day. Allergy sufferers can refer to these reports when planning outdoor activities or treatment options.

Sources
"Allergy Capitals", aafa.org
"Tips for People with Allergies", aafa.org