Hay Fever - Prevention

There are many things a person can do to avoid allergic reactions. Some of the most common recommendations for preventing seasonal hay fever include:

• Stay indoors with windows closed during the morning hours, when pollen levels are highest.
• Keep car windows closed while driving.
• Wear a surgical mask when it is necessary to be outdoors.
• Avoid trees, bushes, flowers, and other plants to which one is allergic.
• Wash clothes and hair after being outside.
• Clean air conditioner filters in the home regularly.
• In severe cases, consider moving to an area with fewer allergens.

To reduce the symptoms of perennial hay fever, one needs to avoid mold spores, house dust, and animal wastes by taking steps such as the following:

• Keep the house dry through ventilation and use of dehumidifiers.
• Keep bathroom floors and walls clean with a disinfectant.
• Clean and disinfect air conditioners and coolers.
• Throw out moldy or mildewed books, shoes, pillows, and furniture.
• Vacuum frequently and change the vacuum bag regularly.
• Clean floors and walls with a damp mop.
• Avoid contact with pets to which one is allergic.
• Wash hands after contact with pets and other animals.
• Keep pets out of the bedroom, and off furniture and other areas where their waste materials may collect.
• Have pets bathed and groomed regularly.