May 14th, 2020
Last updated: May 14th, 2020
Spring has sprung, and in North Texas, that means allergy season is upon us. While many people are sheltering in place and spending more time at home, allergies can come from a variety of places and whether you’re at home or on the go: allergies are never convenient. At WellHealth, we decided to put together a list of 5 Things North Texans can do to help alleviate their symptoms during allergy season.
__Use a Vacuum with a HEPA Filter
It goes without saying that regularly using a vacuum in your home is a great way to rid your floors, carpets and rugs of unwanted dust, dirt and dander but using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter can make an even bigger difference on your allergies. HEPA, which stands for High Efficiency Particulate Air, is a designation used to describe filters that are able to trap 99.97 percent of particles that are 0.3 microns. That means a HEPA filter is your best chance to remove allergens from your home. Regular cleaning with a HEPA powered vacuum cleaner will give you the best chance to rid your home of allergy causing dust and dander.
__Replace Furnace Filters
We know, replacing your furnace filters has been on your to-do list for a few months. Nothing like constant sneezing and runny nose to motivate you to go to your local hardware store or order some replacement filters! Experts recommend changing your filter every 90 days, but if allergies are your primary concern, changing filters in the Fall and Spring will give you a fresh filter to fight allergies during the prime seasons. If possible, choose a high efficiency filter for maximum effectiveness.
__Use Saline Spray or a Neti Pot
Using a saline spray or neti pot to rinse your sinuses can make a real difference during allergy season. Nasal passages can become dried out from breathing indoors air in excess, and saline sprays, neti pots and sinus rinses have become popular in recent years. Be sure to be careful when using any of these products, and only use distilled, sterile or boiled water to be safe.
Take Probiotics
Probiotics are live microorganisms that can be consumed through fermented foods or supplements. Probiotics promote a healthy balance of gut bacteria and have been linked to a wide range of health benefits. These include benefits for weight loss, digestive health, immune function and more. Many studies link the presence of beneficial bacteria in the gut with reduced incidence of allergies. Probiotics can help stimulate production of immune enhancing substances, hinder growth of pathogens and boost the immune system. Not bad for a simple over the counter supplement.
Schedule a Telehealth Appointment at WellHealth
WellHealth is a leader in North Texas for allergy care. Our physicians work to identify the environmental triggers that are causing your allergies and administer allergy care when appropriate. Telehealth appointments are also available at WellHealth, visit WellHealthDFW.com for more information.
