Allergy season is no joke. Pollen, dust, and other airborne irritants can quickly turn what should be a fun, breezy time into a sneezing and running nose trouble time. 

Whether you have always had seasonal allergies or someone new dealing with allergies, it’s never too early to start getting ready for allergy season.

Being proactive beats waiting until you’re already feeling that first tickle in your throat or itchy eye.

Here is how to get ready for allergy season and protect your health.

1. Know Your Enemy: The Allergy Culprits

Before you start reaching for the meds, it’s important to understand what’s triggering your allergies. The main offenders are pollen from trees, grass, and weeds. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you’ll likely encounter:

1. Tree Pollen: Early spring through summer. Trees like oak, cedar, and juniper are especially potent.
2. Grass Pollen: Late spring to summer. Think Bermuda and ryegrass (they’re everywhere!).
3. Weed Pollen: Fall. Ragweed is the big player here, and it can pack a punch.

Knowing which allergens to expect and when will help you prepare better. If you’re allergic to cedar, for example, you’ll know that December to February is the time to stock up on medications and take extra precautions.

2. Start Your Medications Early

One important way to get ready for seasonal allergy is to not wait until the last minute to start treatment. Get ahead of it.

Here’s a simple strategy to consider:

1. Antihistamines: These are your go-to for sneezing, itching, and runny noses. Start taking them a few weeks before allergy season kicks into full gear. Over-the-counter options like Claritin, Zyrtec, or Allegra are great, but if you have more severe reactions, it might be time to chat with your local pharmacist about prescription options.
2. Nasal Sprays: If you’re prone to congestion, a nasal spray like Flonase or Nasacort can be a lifesaver. Again, don’t wait until you’re congested—start using it early so it can prevent symptoms before they start.
3. Eye Drops: For those itchy, watery eyes (we’ve all been there), try some allergy eye drops. The good news is, you can find these at almost any pharmacy, and they’re often effective immediately.

3. Keep Your Home and Car Allergen-Free

Your environment plays a big role in managing allergies, but your home doesn’t have to be a breeding ground for it. Here are a few quick tips to keep your space allergy-friendly:

1. Close the Windows: Nothing beats the fresh air but during peak pollen times, it’s better to keep the windows closed, especially in the morning when pollen levels are highest.
2. Use Air Purifiers: HEPA filters are your best friend during allergy season. They trap dust, pollen, and other irritants, keeping your air cleaner and your symptoms under control.
3. Clean, Clean, Clean: Vacuum regularly with a HEPA filter vacuum and wipe down surfaces to reduce dust. Don’t forget the air ducts! You’d be surprised how much pollen can hang out there.
4. Wash Your Bedding Weekly: If you’ve been outside, pollen can settle on your clothes and hair, which means it’s also on your sheets and pillows. Aim for weekly washes to keep your bedding fresh. Focus on your hair also when bathing.

And don’t forget your car! Keep your car windows closed when parked outdoors, use air conditioning instead of the windows, and invest in a car air purifier if needed.

4. Check the Pollen Forecast and Plan Your Outdoors Time

You cannot control the weather but knowing when it’s going to be at its worst can help you plan your day accordingly. Check the local pollen count (you can find it on weather apps or websites), and if it’s particularly high, avoid spending long hours outdoors.

If you do have to go outside, try to do so in the late afternoon or evening when pollen levels tend to be lower. Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes and a hat to keep pollen from sticking to your hair. If you’re someone who likes to work out outdoors, it might be worth investing in a face mask designed to filter out allergens.

5. Boost Your Immune System

This is one of the best ways to get ready for allergy season. Want to fight allergies from the inside out? Start supporting your immune system before allergy season hits.

1. Vitamin C: This vitamin isn’t just for fighting colds—it’s a great tool for battling inflammation and boosting immunity. Citrus fruits, bell peppers, and supplements are all good sources.
2. Local Honey: It’s said that local honey contains trace amounts of pollen from the area, and consuming it regularly can help desensitize your body over time. Whether you put it in your tea, yogurt, or just eat a spoonful, it’s worth a shot.
3. Probiotics: A healthy gut supports a healthy immune system, so consider adding more probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, or sauerkraut to your diet. You could also talk to your pharmacist about taking a probiotic supplement.

6. Stay Hydrated

It might not sound like a big deal, but staying hydrated can help keep your mucus membranes moist, which is essential for keeping those allergy symptoms in check. 

Drink plenty of water, and consider adding herbal teas like peppermint to help with your symptoms.

7. Don’t Forget to Protect Your Skin

The sun and wind are your allergy season’s constant companions. The combination of allergens and dry air can really dry out your skin, making it more sensitive.

Be sure to keep your skin moisturized, especially if you spend time outdoors. A good sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is a must—remember, your skin needs protection from the sun even when you’re battling allergies.

8. Know When to Visit the Pharmacist

Sometimes, allergies go from manageable to miserable, and that’s when it’s time to have a chat with your local pharmacist (think Gattis Pharmacy). Your Pharmacist can help you get ready for allergy season.

If your usual remedies aren’t cutting it, it might be time to explore prescription options. Don’t hesitate to ask about:

1. Allergy Shots (Immunotherapy): If your allergies are severe, these can help your body gradually become less sensitive to allergens.
2. Prescription Medications: If over-the-counter options aren’t working, your pharmacist can recommend stronger treatments.

Final Thoughts

Allergy season doesn’t have to take you by surprise. Get ready for allegy season by preparing early with the right medications, home adjustments, and immune-boosting strategies. When you prepare well, you will be able to enjoy the season without all the sneezing, itching, and congestion.

At Gattis Pharmacy, we are always available to guide you through the process. So, stock up, stay informed, and don’t let allergies get the best of you this season!