Colds and Sinuses

Prevention – The Best Allergy Remedy

Who needs to go out and see a doctor or buy an allergy remedy if they don’t occur in the first place? Prevention is the best defense against many health conditions, allergies included. There are so many different things we can do to prevent pesky allergic reactions.

1.    Keep dust mites at bay. Dust mites get into all sorts of nooks and crannies. Dust bookshelves and other surfaces daily. Wash your bedding often.
2.    Clean up after your pets. Pet allergies are common culprits behind allergy outbreaks. Vacuum the house often. Give your pet a frequent bath, if applicable. Brush your pet often to catch some of that hair and dander.
3.    Prevent mold. Mold is common in dark damp places. If you are anything like me, every time it rains your allergies are on the verge of a fit. Scrub your bathroom tiles frequently and run the fan or open a window after showers to get rid of condensation. Place a dehumidifier in damp areas, such as the basement. Don’t forget to clean it out frequently.
4.    Ensure your work environment is chemical and scent free. Many workplaces are leaning this way, to make the environment as safe and comfortable as possible for employees. Suggest it to your HR department or supervisor if your work has not yet implemented a low or no scent policy.
5.    Use an air conditioner and keep doors closed during allergy seasons. This will filter out pollen and other airborne allergens. Air conditioners also filter and dehumidify the air.
6.    Install HEPA (high energy particulate arresting) filters in your home to clean the air of even more allergens.
7.    Quit smoking, or force family and friends to smoke outside. Smoke is a huge trigger, and leaves ashes to be stirred up into the air.
8.    Get rid of your carpets. Carpets are a haven for dust and mold to grow. If you prefer carpets to hardwood, invest in throw rugs that you can effectively clean on a regular basis.
9.    Wash your clothes and linens on the hot cycle. Temperatures above 130 degrees will effectively kill off dust mites and their waste.