How to Cope With Summer Allergies

It's not your imagination.

If you suffer from summertime allergies, they are getting worse with each passing year.

The likely culprit? Soaring pollen counts.

You see, the rising average temperatures are leading to longer pollen seasons.

That means spring's tree pollen season has extended well into summer, bumping up against summer's grass and weed pollen season, which now runs into fall.

And that's making folks downright miserable.

I'm not talking about just a few people.

It's estimated that up to 50 million Americans have nasal allergies and sinus issues.

That's a lot of itchy watery eyes, runny noses, sinus congestion, headaches, and plain ole' misery.

To get some relief from the pollen invasion, keep the windows of your home and car closed and run the A/C.

I know that can be tough on a clear summer day.

But to keep the pollen at bay you have to keep it out of your cars and homes.

And keeping the windows shut can slash indoor pollen counts by 90% or more.

Sleeping with your windows closed is also important because sunrise triggers some plants to produce pollen, particularly ragweed, resulting in a peak pollen release between 5am and 9am.

And you don't want all that new pollen flowing right into your house – and up your nose.

When you do come home from being outside, throw your clothes in the hamper and shower right away to wash any lingering pollen from your body.

And don't forget about your dogs.

Even with just a short walk around the block, pups can attract pollen on their paws and coat.

Give them a quick wipe down or even a bath to wash away anything they may have dragged in.

If you do have to spend time outside, time your activities for when pollen counts are the lowest – in the early evening.

But even nighttime activities won't completely eliminate your pollen exposure, as there is evidence that suggests pollen is still airborne at night.

And when you start to feel the congestion and other sinus symptoms building, you may find some relief with a saline spray or nasal rinse.

Or, drink a tea made with a natural antihistamine, like stinging nettle leaf.

By all accounts, seasonal allergies are only going to get worse.

If you're suffering, take steps to watch your exposure to pollen.

Stay inside, shower often, keep the windows closed, and give Fido a bath.

And if you're already knee deep in the sinus misery, try some nasal irrigation or natural antihistamine tea for quick relief.