With the warmer weather and ever longer days of spring, flowers and plants begin to blossom and bloom again. While this can be a wonderful time to shake off the remnants of winter, for the millions with seasonal allergies, spring also brings forth allergy symptoms. Itchy watery eyes, a runny nose, a dry and scratchy throat, and continuous sneezing can all detract from the beauty and pleasure of spring.

Allergies are not outgrown, and can even affect us more as we age. Changes in the physical structure of our nose, sinuses, and nasal cavity can exacerbate the effects of allergy symptoms. As we live longer, sensitivity to allergy triggers can also increase. In addition, allergies can complicate chronic health issues, and can often be overlooked due to other medical conditions.

Completely avoiding allergies may be impossible, but steps can be taken to lessen the severity.

• Pay attention to the pollen and mold count in your area. Many news weather reports will include this information.
• Try to avoid going outside and keep windows and doors closed when allergens are at their highest. Often pollen and mold levels are higher in the morning.
• Avoid grassy areas or places with a lot of plants and flowers, especially if the grass has been recently mowed.
• If you have been outside, change your clothes and bathe to reduce the amount of mold spores and pollen you carry with you.
• When pollen levels are higher, changing sheets more often can also help reduce allergy symptoms.

Coping with seasonal allergies can be unpleasant and irritating. However, allergy symptoms can by reduced by decreasing your exposure to allergy causing molds and pollens. With fewer symptoms, we are free to enjoy the pleasures of spring.

If you have questions on services available to seniors and caregivers in Santa Clara County, call our Information & Assistance specialists at (408) 350-3200, option 1.