Spring Health: Allergy Busters
By Vicki Salemi
Got Allergies?
For millions of Americans with allergies, the onset of spring may be bittersweet. Being outdoors may cause a reaction but according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, allergies are grouped by the kind of trigger, time of year or where symptoms appear on the body. But don't fret, there's good news. People with allergies can live healthy and active lives. Little preparation with these tips goes a long way.
Clean Out the AC
"It's important to clean out air conditioning vents at all times," says Dr. Stanley Fineman, spokesman for The Atlanta Allergy and Asthma Clinic in Atlanta. Ventilation vents should also be cleaned on a regular basis. Since dust and mites could accumulate in these crevices, he suggests using filters or cheesecloths to clean the air vents.
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Replace Shower Curtains
The shower is the ideal area for mildew to grow. According to Dr. Dennis Ownby, lead professor of Allergy and Immunology at the Medical College of Georgia, mold can form in any damp area of a home. In addition to replacing the shower liner, he recommends continuously cleaning the bathroom -- either by drying the area quickly or using chlorine bleach products to kill mold.
Vacuum Your Home
Experts recommend vacuuming your home on a weekly basis which includes furniture, carpets and curtains/drapes. "Some dust will be stirred up by the process, so wear a dust mask while doing this if the person is allergic," recommends Dr. Marjory Slankard, co-director of the Allergy Clinic at Columbia University Medical Center Eastside.
Shut Windows and Doors
You may want the fresh air, but by closing your windows and doors, you'll decrease the possibility of pollen entering into the home.
"Keeping windows closed and using an AC with a filter that is in good condition, when necessary, will remove over 90 percent of pollen, and prevent it from blowing into areas of the home," explains Dr. Slankard.
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Reduce Pet Dander
Sure, you may adore your feline or Fido. But if you're among the 15 to 30 percent of the allergic population who have reactions to cats and dogs, decreasing pet dander in your home is critical. One way is by not allowing your pet to enter your bedroom.
"Especially since the bedroom is where people spend most of their time," notes Dr. Richard Barbers, director of the Asthma and Allergy clinic at the University of Southern California.
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Go to an Allergist
A visit to an allergist is also recommended if you haven't already been tested, advises Dr. Beth Corn, chief of the Asthma-Allergy Clinic at Mount Sinai School of Medicine. "While reducing allergens in your environment is important, it is equally important for patients to talk with their doctors."
Wash Your Bed Linens
Since people spend more time in their bedroom than any other room in the house, another way to strive for an allergen-free environment is to wash your bedding on a weekly basis. Dr. Slankard advises that washing with hot water will kill dust mites. "Washing every week for sheets and every two to four weeks for blankets is recommended."
Replace Curtains and Drapes
Help control dust mites by replacing curtains or drapes with washable curtains or window shades. Since dust mites could easily live in curtains, get rid of them by washing the curtains regularly so that dust won't easily accumulate.
Spring Cleaning
What better time is there to unclutter your bedroom than springtime? By eliminating decorative pillows, cushions and dust collectors, in one full sweep you can reduce the dust levels in your bedroom. According to Dr. Barbers, maintaining your home environment is very important -- indoor allergens are a sign in particular why many patients have symptoms.
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