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Wash off pollen from hands & other exposed
areas during peak allergy seasons.
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Keep windows and doors closed during high pollen
count times and stay inside on the driest, windiest days to minimize exposure
to seasonal allergens.
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Use high-particulate air (HEPA) filters inside
to reduce most airborne contaminants, especially in bedroom locations.
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In humid areas, use a dehumidifier to limit mold
growth.
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Buy allergy-proof bedding, including mattress
and pillow case covers, to reduce allergy symptoms, and regularly wash sheets,
blankets, and pillow cases in hot water.
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Stuffed animals and real animals alike can
contribute to allergic rhinitis, so wash them frequently.
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Consider removing carpeting in bedrooms or use
area rugs that can be cleaned regularly.
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Vacuum all carpets and floor surfaces weekly
with a HEPA-filter equipped appliance.
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Remove shoes at the front door when entering the
house to limit tracking on contaminants and potentials irritants throughout the
home.
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Limit lawn-mowing and other gardening activities
at peak allergy times; avoid use of chemical pesticides and outdoor products.
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Use environmentally – and health-safe household
cleaners.
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Eat healthy, whole organic foods with plenty of
anti-inflammatory antioxidants.
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Avoid use of herbal products and food that can
cross react with seasonal allergens; for some people this may include Echinacea
species and certain fruits and vegetables (this is known as oral allergy
syndrome).
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To prevent allergic disease in babies, consider
perinatal avoidance of known food allergens, especially if there is a family
history of atopic disease; breastfeeding is known to be protective as well.
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Ty a saline rinse device called a neti pot to
clear pollen from the nasal cavities. Even children as young as 2 years old can
be taught how to use one.
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Look into using specific natural health product
supplements, like probiotics and essential fatty acids, which may lower your
risk of developing allergies.
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Think about taking up a stress-coping technique,
like yoga or meditation.