7 Effective Ways to Manage Seasonal Allergies

Seasonal Allergy Relief: How to Manage Allergies in Vancouver, BC

According to the Weather Network, up to 30% of people suffer from seasonal allergies in Canada. Spring is a particularly difficult time for those with allergies, with tree pollen emerging as early as March.

The symptoms vary from mild to severe and while seasonal allergies are common, they can be frustrating to deal with. A warm and early spring can exacerbate allergy symptoms and the season can last up until June. This can make it difficult to get through the day.
If you’re looking for seasonal allergy relief, there are ways that you can manage your symptoms and make you more comfortable.
Keep reading for seven effective ways to manage your seasonal allergies and make the most of the spring season!

1. Know the Signs and Symptoms

One of the most important ways that you can manage seasonal allergies is by recognizing the symptoms. Although irritants vary and some experience more intense symptoms than others, here are some common signs to be aware of:

• Red and watery eyes
• Sinus congestion
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Itchiness on the roof of the mouth
• Hives on the skin
• Sneezing and coughing

Those who suffer from allergies will also have different triggers for their symptoms. This depends on the time of the year and the type of pollen allergy you have. Common culprits include grass, tree, and weed pollen.

2. Consider an Antihistamine

If you want to know how to cope with seasonal allergies, you might consider getting your hands on some allergy medication.
There are some over-the-counter options for antihistamines that can help soothe your symptoms. However, these are only recommended if you know your allergy. Without consulting a doctor, you shouldn’t take antihistamines as they can have sedative effects.

A doctor can help you choose the right medication and get on track once you know your allergy. You can schedule an appointment with a virtual doctor to explain your symptoms and get the right medical advice.

3. Know When to Take Medication

Knowing when to take medication is one of the most useful tips for dealing with seasonal allergies. Many long-term sufferers can get ahead of their symptoms and start taking medication before their allergies kick in.

Understanding your allergy pattern will take time but it will help you prevent the symptoms rather than trying to alleviate intense symptoms.

To get ahead of allergy season, you can start taking a daily antihistamine during the first or second week of March. This will give you a head start on pollen season which typically begins during the first week of Spring. You also want to stay consistent with taking your medication and try to take it at the same time each day.

If you do not have a prescription to manage your allergies you can book a virtual consultation with one of our online doctors about to discuss your allergies. Our doctors are capable of writing online prescriptions that can be filled at a pharmacy in British Columbia.

4. Try Nasal Sprays

For those with severe symptoms, some of the most effective seasonal allergy advice is to get prepared beyond antihistamine pills.

While you might get some relief from pills, nasal sprays can also be helpful for a stuffy nose and nasal drip. They also help with swelling and inflammation that occur as a result of allergies.

They are medicated and non-medicated options for nasal sprays which help to loosen mucus and lubricate the nasal passages. These can also require a few days to take effect so you can start using a spray before the onset of your symptoms.

5. Keep Eyedrops on Hand

Eyedrops are another one of the must-have remedies for seasonal allergies. Itchy, red, and irritated eyes can make it difficult to get through the day. This can make it impossible to have a productive workday and can even make it dangerous to drive.

Lubricating eye drops are essential to have on hand when you feel that your eyes might be getting irritated. They provide instant comfort and relief, and they are easy to apply.

Keep a small bottle in your purse or your car if this is a common symptom for you.

6. Change Clothes When Coming From Outdoors

Our “outside” clothes can carry pollen and other allergens. You can transfer these particles to other fabrics and areas of the house which can exacerbate your symptoms even more.

Get into the habit of changing out of your clothes if you’ve taken your child to the park, or you’ve spent a considerable amount of time outside. This will help prevent the spread of common allergens in your home.

If you’re particularly symptomatic, you can also wash your hair when you come inside to help eliminate allergens.

7. Make Dietary Changes

You might be surprised to know that some dietary changes might also help to reduce allergy symptoms. Certain fruits, vegetables, and roots have properties that might be beneficial if you’re an allergy sufferer.

Here are some foods that you might consider incorporating into your diet before allergy season:

• Ginger and turmeric for natural anti-inflammatory
• Citrus fruits for added vitamin C
• Salmon for a boost of omega-3s

These are some of the foods that can help with allergies. This is because vitamins help to boost the immune system and anti-inflammatories help fight swelling.

Get Seasonal Allergy Relief With These Seven Tips

Allergies affect everyone differently but they create symptoms that can be difficult to manage. You can get seasonal allergy relief by recognizing the symptoms, taking an antihistamine, knowing when to take medication, using eye drops, and making small changes in your diet. Try these handy tips to alleviate your allergies during any season!

Be sure to visit our website and book a virtual walk-in appointment with an experienced physician and get ahead of allergy season.

See a Virtual Doctor to Treat Your Seasonal Allergies