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As someone who suffers from seasonal allergies, my favorite time of the year can also be a nightmare for my eyes, nose, and throat. I absolutely love being outdoors in springtime, but once everything starts blooming and the pollen comes out my eyes start watering, my throat gets itchy, and my sinuses go into battle mode. My family suffers from them as well, so I have become somewhat of an expert at finding ways to minimize discomfort and spend time outdoors without worrying about feeling terrible afterwards. If you are like us, then read on to see some of my favorite ways to fight seasonal allergies and maximize outdoor time!
1. Prevent
I know it isn’t always easy to plan things out, but prevention truly is the best way to avoid having to handle allergy symptoms. Your course of action will depend on what you are going to be doing, but here are a few things that I do when I know the pollen is coming:
- Keep windows closed tightly so that pollen doesn’t drift in.
- Rinse off cars, porches, and any outdoor equipment daily.
- Stay indoors on windy days – when the wind is blowing, pollen can get in your hair, on your clothes, and just about anywhere.
2. Treat
A quality, long lasting allergy medicine is key. I use Xyzal® Allergy 24HR as it relieves sneezing, runny nose, itchy watery eyes, nose, or throat for a full 24 hours. I take it at night as per instructions, so it is already working when I wake up the next day. It isn’t a sleep aid, but I’ve found it works best if I take it before bedtime to relieve my allergy symptoms. (Make sure you follow product labeling for proper use)
It is now available over the counter at CVS in full prescription strength, and it comes in packages of 10, 35, 55, and 80. I have tried a ton of different allergy products over the years, and I can confidently say that Xyzal is great for being able to go about my daily outdoor routine without downtime. It is clinically proven to relieve symptoms in 60 minutes.
3. Wear a mask
I know it looks cheesy as anything, but I would rather wear a face mask while I’m gardening and avoid breathing in things that will set my allergies off. Face masks are inexpensive and you can get 50 face masks for just a few dollars. I always have a few on hand if I’m going to be outdoors a lot and there is pollen in the air.
4. Stay well stocked
Before spring comes, I like to refill/restock our medicine cabinet so that I don’t end up having to run out at midnight for something we need. Since the entire family suffers from seasonal allergies, I always fill it with a variety of medicines, rubs, and other items we may need. Here are a few essentials that I think every medicine cabinet should include:
- A long lasting medicine like Xyzal 24Hr
- Tissues
- Disposable face masks
- Hand sanitizer
- Vapor rub
- Honey/lemon tea
- Saline
I like to use a homemade sanitizer, because a lot of times the store bought versions can have overpowering smells. The one I use is mild and has a slightly lemon scent, which I find very soothing. If you want to make one for yourself, here is what you need:
- 1/2 cup clear aloe vera gel
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1 tsp baking soda (optional)
To make, just mix ingredients together and pour into a spray bottle. You can spray and go or rinse off, either way is fine. I love how fresh it smells, and it is perfect for taking in your purse!
You can find Xyzal 24Hr at your local CVS store.