Bees are busy buzzing and Spring is definitely in the air. That means pollen too. Good for the bees, bad for allergy sufferers. I've gathered ten helpful tips for all of you who want to enjoy the fresh air but find it difficult to do so during this time of year.
1. Timing: Know the best time to go outside. Pollen counts are highest in the mornings and on warm and dry days. Windy days stir up the pollen and make it worse. Beware of the first sunny day following a series of cloudy days. Pollen builds up on overcast days and is then released when the sun comes out. Right after a rain fall is a great time to enjoy the outdoors.
2. Escape: The coasts and the mountains have less pollen. Try to plan a pollen get-away trip.
3. Sunglasses: This one's pretty obvious. They help keep the pollen out of your eyes and you'll look good too. The bigger the better (and more glamourous).
4. Vaseline: Place a little just inside your nose. Lots of the pollen will attach to the vaseline and not enter your system. But this only works if you can breathe solely through your nose.
5. Windows: Keep 'em shut. If you open them, more pollen will enter your house. Save the airing for a rainy day. Of course, daily dusting and vacuuming will help rid you of the pollen that found a way in. The same thing goes for your car. Air conditioning on, windows closed.
6. Pets: Brush them off before they are allowed back inside. It's probably best if you get someone else to do this for you.
7. Wash: Take a shower before you go to bed. You don't want to bring the pollen that you have gathered in your hair and on your clothes to bed with you.
8. Clothing: Wash it! Don't let clothes that you've worn outside into your bedroom without first washing them. And don't air dry your laundry. The pollen will just cling to it.
9. Lawn: Get some help. Mowing the lawn stirs up the pollen. If you have to do it yourself, wear a mask.
10. Neti Pot: If you don't have one, get one. So handy during cold season. This helpful pot cleans your nasal passages of any pollen that did manage to find it's way in. And don't worry, it's easy to use.
Do you have any of your own tips to add to the list? Add it to the comments below.
