How to Reduce Allergic Reactions
and Symptoms From Pollen Allergy
The spring allergy season begins with pollen released by trees, and then grasses follow later
in spring. There are apps you can use to watch your area’s pollen counts. On days that the
pollens are high for the trees or grasses you are allergic to, you can take these actions to
lessen the amount of pollens you are exposed to:

• Limit your outdoor activities
• Keep your windows closed
• Use central air conditioning with air filtration
• Wear sunglasses when you are outdoors
• Wear a hat to cover your hair
• Take a shower and shampoo your hair
before going to bed to remove pollen from
your hair and skin
• Change and wash clothes worn during outdoor activities
• Dry your laundry in a clothes dryer, not on an outdoor line
• Limit close contact with pets that spend a lot of time outdoors
• Wipe pets off with a towel before they enter your home
• Remove your shoes before entering your home
• Wash your bedding in hot, soapy water once a week
• Rinse the inside of your nose with a nasal rinse to flush out and
remove pollens you have inhaled into your nasal passages
• Use a CERTIFIED asthma & allergy friendly® air cleaner (portable or
whole house/HVAC)
There are also options available to prevent or treat allergy symptoms:
• Over-the-counter or prescription allergy medicines – some of these
work best if you start taking them before the allergy season begins
• Immunotherapy – there are shots or tablets available that are
a long-term treatment for pollen allergy. It can help prevent
or reduce the severity of allergic reactions
Talk with your doctor or health care provider months before the allergy season begins so you can
discuss which treatment is right for you. Now is a good time to book your appointment for the
end of the year (in mid-winter) before next spring begins.