Managing Hay Fever Through Summer: 4 Must-Know Tips

Hay fever can make the summer months a challenging time if you live with allergies. Pollen levels reach their peak, and many people find themselves battling itchy eyes, sneezing, and congestion throughout the season. 

At Riviera Allergy Medical Center, allergy specialist Dr. Ulrike Ziegner understands the importance of effectively managing hay fever symptoms to help you enjoy the season to the fullest. Here, we share four top tips for managing hay fever during the summer months.

1. Be proactive with medications

One of the most effective ways to manage hay fever symptoms is to begin taking allergy medications before the season starts. This helps you to keep symptoms from escalating, or perhaps prevent them from ever starting.

However, it's essential to consult with an allergy specialist. Dr. Ziegner determines the most appropriate medications and treatment plan for your individual needs.

2. Keep track of pollen counts

Pollen levels can vary significantly throughout the summer months, so knowing the daily pollen count can help you better manage your hay fever symptoms. Many websites and apps provide accurate pollen count information, allowing you to plan your outdoor activities accordingly. 

3. Establish an allergy-friendly home environment

Creating an allergy-friendly home environment is crucial for managing hay fever symptoms during the summer. Here are a few simple steps to minimize exposure to allergens indoors:

Use HEPA Filters

Creating an allergy-friendly home environment starts with using high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters in your air conditioning system. These filters help reduce pollen and other allergens circulating in your home, providing relief from hay fever symptoms.

Reduce allergen accumulation

Regularly cleaning and dusting your living spaces minimizes allergen accumulation. Be thorough when cleaning surfaces, furniture, and flooring, and consider using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter for best results.

After spending time outdoors, shower and change clothes to remove pollen from your skin and hair. By making this a habit, you prevent pollen from spreading throughout your living space and causing hay fever flare-ups.

Keep windows closed

During high pollen count days, it's crucial to keep windows closed and use air conditioning to maintain a comfortable temperature. This practice helps reduce the amount of pollen entering your home, limiting exposure to allergens.

4. Practice smart outdoor habits

When it comes to managing hay fever, adopting smart outdoor habits can significantly reduce your exposure to pollen and alleviate symptoms, making your time outside more enjoyable during the summer months.

Protect your eyes

Wearing sunglasses when spending time outside can protect your eyes from pollen and reduce eye irritation. Wrap-around sunglasses are particularly effective at shielding your eyes from airborne allergens.

Choose low-pollen destinations

Avoid areas with tall grasses or heavy vegetation where pollen levels may be higher. Opt for locations with fewer plants and trees, such as beaches or urban parks, to minimize your exposure to allergens.

Seek professional allergy care

If your hay fever symptoms persist despite following these tips, it's essential to seek professional care from an allergy specialist. Dr. Ulrike Ziegner and her team at Riviera Allergy Medical Center are experts in diagnosing and treating various allergies, including hay fever. 

Dr. Ziegner provides personalized treatment plans, which may include allergy testing, immunotherapy (allergy shots), or prescription medications, to help you better manage your symptoms so you can enjoy your summer without disruptions.

Get personalized allergy care

Don't let hay fever keep you from enjoying the beautiful summer months. By following these four essential tips and seeking allergy care from Riviera Allergy Medical Center, you can take control of your hay fever symptoms and make the most of the season. 

Give us a call today to schedule a hay fever consultation with Dr. Ziegner and begin your journey toward a more comfortable, allergy-free summer.