Asthma and Allergies

Are you sneezing, sniffling and itchy? Have you had a nagging cough, or are you wheezing or short of breath? Allergies and asthma often trigger these symptoms in the spring when pollen counts are high. Seasonal allergies also called “hay fever,” affect more than 35 million people in the United States.

Those with seasonal allergies and asthma should take the following precautions this spring:

  • Keeping windows closed at night to prevent pollen and mold from drifting into your home. Keep car windows closed when driving.
  • Reducing activity between 5 am and 10 am when pollen counts are higher.
  • Staying indoors on windy days and when the pollen count or humidity is high.
  • Letting someone else mow the lawn, and staying away from freshly cut lawns. Mowing stirs up pollen and mold.
  • Drying sheets and clothing in the dryer, not on a clothesline, so pollen and mold don’t collect on them.
  • Talking to your doctor about how to manage your asthma, including use of medications during allergy season.

Resources