Living in the southeast of the United States brings the joy of milder winters and warm summers. But, along with this comes an increase in the amount of pollen and other allergens in the air – something that can have a significant impact on your health if you’re not prepared.
According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, allergies are the sixth leading cause of chronic illness in the United States. And if you’re a homeowner in the Southeastern States, the prevalence of allergens in the air is higher than the majority of other areas in the country.
It’s important to identify the triggers for allergens in your home, and there are a few steps you can take to reduce their effects. Read on to find out how to keep allergens from playing havoc with your health.
Identifying the Causes
The first step in controlling allergens in the home is to determine which ones are affecting you. This is done by consulting with an allergist, who can perform a series of tests to identify the substances that your body is reacting to.
Once you know which substances are causing problems for you, you can then begin to work on reducing your exposure to them. Knowing what to look out for and avoiding contact with them is key.
Making your Home Allergen-Proof
Making your home free of airborne allergens is not as difficult as it may initially seem. By getting rid of carpets, curtains, and other fabric-based items, you can reduce the amount of pollen, dust, and pet dander in your home. Vacuuming your carpets regularly and using a HEPA filter on your air conditioner also helps to reduce the amount of allergens in the air.
Likewise, it is important to keep windows and doors shut as much as possible, as this will reduce the amount of pollen that gets into your home. It is also advisable to invest in a high-quality air purifier with a built-in HEPA filter, which will help to remove allergens from your living space. Finally, try to keep your indoor humidity levels between 40-60% to discourage the growth of mold and mildew.
For those suffering from pet allergies, another effective way to reduce exposure to pet dander is to keep pets outdoors, as much as possible, and to use materials such as pet beds and blankets which can easily be washed and replaced regularly.
Treating Allergies with Medication
If you are unable to completely remove allergens from your environment or if your allergies are severe, your doctor may recommend taking medication to reduce or eliminate your symptoms. Over the counter antihistamines and decongestant medications can help to relieve sneezing, itchy eyes, and a runny nose.
Steroid nasal sprays, such as Flonase and Nasonex, can help to reduce inflammation in your nasal passages and prevent the onset of allergic reactions. Bronchodilators, such as Albuterol, can help to reduce wheezing in those with asthma.
It is important to speak with your doctor before taking any medication, as some medications and combinations of medications may have side effects or interact with other medications that you are taking.
Conclusion
Living in the Southeastern United States can be a challenging prospect for those with allergies. However, by following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that you are able to reduce your exposure to allergens and minimize their effects on your health.