With fall on the horizon, most New Englanders are anticipating cooler weather, football season, and foliage. However, seasonal allergy sufferers may be less than enthusiastic about the coming change in seasons and temperature. Fall allergens, such as ragweed, mold spores, and dust, affect approximately thirty-five million Americans and can persist until the first frost. In addition to taking allergy medication and consulting a doctor, there are ways to protect your home against these allergens in an attempt to make it more comfortable during the fall season.
Allergy-Proof Your Home
1. Keep your windows closed to keep pollen from getting inside. Throwing the windows open as the days and nights get cooler is tempting, but consider using a fan or your air conditioner instead.
2. Protect your clothing against pollen by changing and washing them after spending time outdoors. Also, refrain from hanging clothes on an outdoor clothesline. Make sure to shower as well!
3. Change the air filters in your air conditioners and furnace to remove dust and allergens. For those with intense allergies, it may be beneficial to do this every six to eight weeks.
4. Use hypoallergenic bedding and wash your bedding on a regular basis. Don’t forget to also clean decorative pillows and curtains as well.
5. Clean and dust using nontoxic cleansers and use a damp cloth instead of a feather duster, which can just move dust and allergens around the house rather than removing them.
6. Vacuum regularly using a vacuum that has a HEPA filter. A HEPA filter will pick up small particles and allergens that vacuums without one may leave behind.
7. Bathe your pets on a weekly basis to eliminate allergens that may be clinging to their fur.
Whether you’re a longtime allergy sufferer or have developed allergies in recent years, Plymouth Ear, Nose and Throat is here to help. Please call us at 508-746-8977 to schedule your appointment today!