HEALTH INSIGHTS

Ways to Relieve Airborne Allergy Discomfort

March 21, 2017

Ways to Relieve Airborne Allergy Discomfort

  • Keep your home heating and cooling system clean.

  • Try a duct-cleaning service to clean dust mites, dust and dirt from your air duct system.

  • Update your vacuum cleaner. Look into the newer "closed system" models; some deposit dust directly into a water-filled canister.

  • Cover your pillows and mattresses with plastic to eliminate dust mites.

  • Rid your house of cockroaches; their body parts and waste products also are a major household allergen.

  • Avoid smoke and other irritating fumes -- they can aggravate your allergies.

  • Limit alcohol consumption. Nasal passages swell and secrete more mucus when you've been drinking.

  • Limit outdoor activities. During allergy season, be sure to avoid the flowers, trees and grasses that bother you. Although they are not exact, the local weather report's pollen count can be helpful when planning outdoor activities.

  • Reduce mold exposure. Clean bathrooms frequently and run the exhaust fan during and after showering.

Updated:  

March 21, 2017

Reviewed By:  

Godsey, Cynthia M.S., M.S.N., APRN