Seasonal Allergies Attacking Early

MINNEAPOLIS - Seasonal allergies seem to be hitting people even earlier this year.

Usually seasonal allergies are so predictable you could set your calendar as soon as symptoms start. But like this year's spring allergies, the fall pollen count is coming weeks ahead of schedule.

Dr. Pamela Harris of Park Nicollet Asthma and Allergy says if you suffer from fall allergies, you should start treating them as soon as symptoms appears

“The medicines work better to prevent symptoms than they do to treat the symptoms that are already there,” said Harris.

Tips Before Taking Antihistamines
But Harris adds the best offense is strong defense. Before jumping right to antihistamines, she suggests isolating yourself from the bothersome airborne particles.

When you're inside, keep the windows closed to keep the pollen outside where is belongs.

When you're driving, run your air conditioning on max which recalculates inside air.

Don't hang clothes outside to dry.

And be sure to shower and wash your hair before you go to bed. It will wash off the pollen and could help you get a better night sleep.

“If you're doing the avoidance and you're on the medicines and it doesn't provide the benefit you want, allergy shots are a good long term option.”

If you think you're allergic to your dog, he might just need a bath. If he spends a lot of time outside, he could be smuggling pollen in his fur. If you do resort to allergy shots, keep in mind they won't help this season, but could prove to be beneficial in the years to come.