Five Ways to Minimize the Misery of Spring Allergies

This spring may be extra irritating for allergy sufferers, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC). After a long, wet and cold winter, spring’s pollen counts may be higher than usual. Unfortunately, more than 40 million Americans who struggle with seasonal allergies could find their eyes are redder, itchier and more watery than normal. Even those who have never had spring allergies before may be dealing with runny noses and itchy eyes. Allergy medicine, from over-the-counter products to prescription drugs, can offer relief. Here are five other steps you can take to minimize the misery of spring allergies:

1. Wear sunglasses or eyeglasses whenever possible to protect your eyes from pollen.

2. Keep windows at home and in the car closed so pollen doesn’t blow in.

3. Remove your jacket, hat and shoes as soon as you enter the house to avoid tracking pollen inside. Also, don’t hang laundry outside to dry.

4. Shower before bed to remove pollen from skin and hair.

5. Monitor the pollen count each day (either online or through your local weather forecast). Try to spend less time outside when those counts are very high.