Allergies affect more than 50 million Americans. They’re one of the leading causes of chronic illness. As a family caregiver, you dread spring’s allergy season. It drains you and makes it really hard to focus on providing the care your dad needs.
Do You Know Your Triggers?
Do you know what triggers your spring allergies? If you can narrow it down, you might be able to avoid some of the more severe symptoms.
If it’s grass pollen or the mold and mildew spores heightening with the arrival of spring, they’re hard to avoid. But, if it’s the pollen from leaves and flowers on trees like ash, birch, and pine, removing those trees from your yard may help.
Keep Things Closed Up
You want to keep your windows and doors closed when trees are leafing out, grass is returning, and flowers are starting to bloom. When you allow pollen to come into your home, you’ll increase your symptoms.
As much as you want to open windows for the fresh air, keep them closed for now. Run an air purifier all day and night to remove as many airborne allergens as you can.
If you really want to have your windows open, focus on the time of day when allergens settle. Pollen counts tend to be highest in the early morning to mid-morning and then settle until early evening.
Stay Inside During Peak Allergen Hours
In addition to closing windows and doors, avoid being outside during the peak allergen hours. Usually, this is from 5 a.m. to 10 a.m. and then again after 5 p.m. If you do go outside, shower when you come back inside. Wash the clothes you were wearing outside.
Drink Lots of Water
Drink plenty of water. It helps keep the mucus watery, which lowers the risk of a sinus infection. Proper hydration also helps lower the number of histamines your body produces, which eases some of the symptoms.
If you don’t love water, herbal tea and iced decaf coffee can be good alternatives. Seltzer is another option.
Take Time for Self-Care
Make sure you take care of yourself. Ignoring your symptoms can make it worse. If you’re tired, don’t power through. Stay home and sleep in. If you need to take allergy medications that cause drowsiness, don’t try to drive.
If the allergies are severe and you find it hard to breathe, see your doctor. Sometimes, allergies worsen and can lead to asthma. It’s best to get checked out. There may be a prescription medication that works better.
Elder Home Care cover a wide range. Have someone help your dad while you focus on feeling better. When you call an Elder Home Care specialist, ask specifically about respite care services for the duration of allergy season.
If you or an aging loved-one is considering Home Care in Bolton, CT please contact the caring staff at Happy Home Care LLC today. (860) 709-1072
Sources:
https://www.aafa.org/allergy-facts/