As cabin fever abates because we can finally get outside in the sunshine, many of you run from the confines of home smack into a wall of pollen. Thus begins the season of sneezing, itchy eyes, scratchy throat, and general facial puffiness. Talk about taking the bad with the good!
Hiking can be particularly challenging for those who suffer from allergies, as being in nature exposes you to a variety of allergens such as tree, grass, and weed pollen. These are the most common Spring allergens. On a positive note, you don’t have to resign yourself to suffering a histamine reaction just to enjoy the spring sunshine. There are several strategies you can employ to keep allergy symptoms at bay.
Check the Pollen Index
Pollen levels tend to be highest in the morning and on windy days. If the pollen count is high, consider postponing your hike to another day or choosing a different location with lower pollen levels. There are many resources, like pollen.com, available online that provide real-time updates on pollen levels in various locations.
Choose the Right Weather Conditions
The weather can also have a significant impact on your allergy symptoms. On dry, windy days, pollen can easily be carried in the air, making it difficult for allergy sufferers to avoid exposure. On the other hand, rainy days can help to clear the air of pollen, making it easier to breathe. Choosing the right weather conditions can help you manage your allergy symptoms while hiking.
Use OTC Medicine Before a Hike
If you know you suffer from seasonal allergies, it’s a good idea to take allergy medication before you start your hike. There are many over-the-counter antihistamines and decongestants available that can help to alleviate your allergy symptoms. It’s important to follow the recommended dosage and timing for the medication to be most effective. Ask your doctor for advice on dealing with your allergies with medication.
Wear Appropriate Clothing
Wearing appropriate clothing can also help to manage your allergy symptoms. Long-sleeved shirts and pants can help to protect your skin from allergens, and wearing a hat can help to protect your face from pollen in the air. It’s also important to wash your clothes and take a shower after your hike to remove any allergens that may have attached to your clothing or skin. That way you won’t spread them around your house causing more symptoms.
Know Your Triggers
Everyone’s allergy triggers are different, so it’s important to know what triggers your allergy symptoms. If you know you’re allergic to tree pollen, for example, avoid hiking in areas with a lot of trees during the peak of tree pollen season. If you have kids with allergies, be sure to talk to them about their triggers and how to avoid them while hiking.
Wrapping Up
Seasonal allergies can make hiking challenging, but with some strategies in place, you can still enjoy the great outdoors. Checking the pollen index and levels, choosing the right weather conditions, taking allergy medication, wearing appropriate clothing, and knowing your triggers can all help to manage your allergy symptoms while hiking. By taking these steps, you can breathe easy and enjoy the beauty of nature without the distraction of allergy symptoms.