Tips for Senior Citizens During Allergy Season

Spring is a season everyone looks forward to. Unfortunately, nature also grinds its gears for a new and productive season – and that means that people with allergies must also suffer one of spring’s more annoying side effects – allergies. Allergens are thought to affect a big portion of the population, and the effects can be prevalent from infancy through adulthood. Exposure over time doesn’t necessarily decrease the potency of allergens, as sensitivity can also increase as the years progress.

Senior citizens are more at risk during this period, because allergy symptoms may be dangerous to those who already have presiding cardiovascular problems. You’re usual, over-the-counter antihistamines may clash with current health conditions, therefore, consulting with your primary care physician is highly recommended.

The following are tips and advice for people 65+ who may suffer from allergies:

• Washing Hands. When spring arrives, everyone is eager to go outside. Winter had us staying home and putting on multitudes of layers of clothes. So in spring, people try to stay outside as long as possible to enjoy some much sought-after warmth. However, prolonged exposure outside means that pollen will get stuck in your hair and clothes, and pollen spreading in your house may also cause bothersome symptoms. Therefore, it is highly recommended that you wash your hands and take a shower immediately after you come indoors; to prevent symptoms from worsening.
• Nutrition. Sneezing, runny nose, eye-itching or watering are symptoms of allergies that may pose some discomfort. However, pollen-induced inflammation can throw a wrench in any person’s joyous spring plans. So what better way to combat this than with nutrition, something we can easily control? Foods like leafy greens, flaxseed, walnuts, apples, and anything high in Vitamin C is highly recommended by nutritionists; as these foods are known to help impede inflammation.
• Safeguard. It’s understandable that when spring comes, the temptation to open the windows and charge outside in childlike fashion is great. However, this may also allow the pollen to come inside your home and body. Although the beautiful weather prompts the windows to be opened, keep them closed during allergy season; lest the trees will keep providing you with an unnecessary dose of pollen. It is also helpful to plan outdoor activities when pollen levels are low, and when you do get a chance to go outside, wear sunglasses, just in case. The sunglasses provide protection against the pollen and other airborne irritants.

Spring is an exciting season to go out and enjoy nature and outdoor activities. It’s also a time when Nature will go all out to bombard your sinuses and respiratory systems with allergies.

Symptoms which are easily handled by younger generations may be more dangerous to seniors. Senior citizens should use a little more caution, because minor symptoms may clash with current health conditions. Therefore, it is important to prepare for this by eating the right foods, exercise, proper hygiene, and planning activities with safety in mind.