FACT SHEET

 PREVENTING ALLERGIC RHINITIS

As many as 10 percent to 30 percent of adults and up to 40 percent of children suffer from allergic rhinitis – allergies that are characterized by sneezing, nasal congestion, runny nose and watery eyes. The condition – especially when caused by plant and tree pollens or molds – is often called ‘hay fever,’ although hay is not a cause of allergic rhinitis (ragweed is the No. 1 culprit), and it is not accompanied by a fever. Allergic rhinitis that occurs most frequently in the spring, summer or early fall when plants are pollinating, also is called seasonal rhinitis. Tips for preventing allergic rhinitis include:

• When possible, avoid or limit exposure to the allergy-causing substance.

• Be prepared for allergy season. Antihistamines taken before exposure to allergy-causing substances can help prevent a runny nose and itchy eyes.

• Air condition your car and home, and keep the windows shut to keep pollen out. Be sure to clean air conditioning units frequently to prevent molds and other potential allergens from growing.

• Avoid the outdoors when plant pollination is at its peak. Peak pollen times depend on the plant, the weather and your geographical location.  A local allergist can help determine which plants trigger your allergy symptoms and can provide practical tips on how you can avoid them.

• Wear glasses or sunglasses when outdoors to keep pollen from irritating the eyes.

• Wear a dust mask when working outdoors during times that pollen counts are high.

• Avoid pollution, smoke, perfumes, hair spray, bug spray, oven cleaner, laundry detergents and other chemicals that may aggravate allergies.

• Watch the pollen counts reported by television and other media to know when to begin taking pre-medications and avoid allergens.

• Take a vacation at the beach during peak allergy seasons. Ocean breezes can help clear away pollen and relieve allergy symptoms.

• Wash hands often and rinse eyes with cool water after coming indoors to remove clinging pollen.

• Cultivate a healthy lifestyle, including a well-balanced diet, regular exercise, proper rest and avoidance of stress and general pollutants such as cigarette smoke. These measures won’t cure an allergy, but they can contribute to better resistance.

• If symptoms persist or are severe, consult an allergist-immunologist who can prescribe special medications or other strategies to reduce allergy symptoms.

The American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) has more information that can help you get your allergies under control. Call toll-free 800-842-7777 or visit www.acaai.org.