Nip Those Springtime Allergies in the Bud with These Expert Tips

 Spring brings a lot more than lush flowers for people with allergies. If you’re one of the millions of Americans who sniffle and sneeze their way through springtime, you know how detrimental seasonal allergies can be.

Thankfully, there are solutions. At her offices in Valencia, Burbank, and Lancaster, California, Dr. Maricar Cutillar-Garcia provides seasonal allergy care for people of all ages.

If you’re bothered by springtime allergies, consider the following expert tips.

Learn what you’re allergic to

Some people chalk up their symptoms, such as sneezing, watery eyes, and postnasal drip, up to springtime allergies without ever getting a proper assessment. However, prevention steps often require knowing exactly what you're allergic to. Furthermore, in some cases, a springtime cold or sinus infection gets mistaken for an allergy.

Dr. Cutillar-Garcia provides allergy testing to take the guesswork from your symptoms and make way for effective treatment.

Limit or avoid allergen exposure 

Do your best to limit or avoid your exposure to springtime allergens, which are usually types of pollen. Check pollen levels on a weather app or sign up for Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) air quality alerts by zip code. Most air quality trackers measure circulating pollen levels from grass, trees, and weeds.  

When pollen levels are high in your area, consider these steps:

• Avoiding (or wearing a mask while) mowing grass or raking leaves
• Cleaning your floors with a vacuum containing a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter
• Closing your doors and windows, especially at night 
• Limiting outdoor activity in the early mornings and late evenings
• Using a HEPA air purifier and changing the filter regularly

Changing your clothes after spending time outside can help. About half of pollen on clothing stays in place even after attempts to brush it off. Wearing a hat outdoors and washing your hair before bed can help keep pollen away from your nasal passages.

Consider allergy shots

If your springtime allergies continue regardless of your attempts to manage them, you may benefit from allergy shots. Allergy shots stimulate your immune system with tiny amounts of an allergen so your body can gradually tolerate it. 

After receiving 1-3 shots per week for 3-6 months, you’ll likely only need an allergy shot once a month for ongoing relief. Allergy shots help prevent allergic reactions or reduce their intensity for several years or longer.

For personalized spring allergy treatment, call our office or request an appointment with Dr. Cutillar-Garcia through our website today. In addition to lifestyle recommendations, she can determine if you’re a good candidate for prescription allergy medication or allergy shots.