Greater Prescott’s natural beauty plays a huge role in luring visitors and new residents to the region, but its lush environment can unleash pollen and other allergy triggers that make some people miserable in early spring.
Aspen, pine, oak, ash and other trees and plants dotting the landscape release powdery pollen substances that some people’s immune systems misinterpret as dangerous and mount an inflammatory response full of sneezing, coughing, runny noses and watery eyes.
Unfortunately, the most effective solution for those prone to allergies is to avoid triggers, but there are some treatments that work nearly as well and let you roam free in nature.
Lifestyle adjustments
Those who want to avoid taking medicines will do best by avoiding exposure to whatever allergens tend to set them off. For example, they can wear a mask while doing yardwork and take off their clothes after coming back indoors.
Staying indoors on dry, windy days that are bound to aggravate symptoms is also a good idea, as well as avoiding hanging laundry outside to dry.
They can also tackle the problem indoors with HEPA filters on vacuums and air purifiers and cleaning those filters frequently.
Reducing or eliminating wall-to-wall carpet and heavy drapes, which tend to harbor dust mites, and setting up a dehumidifier can curb both dust mites and mold, which also are major allergy triggers. Beware of pets bringing pollen and dust inside after letting them romp in the yard or park.
Preventive measures and treatments
Until after the spring pollen explosion subsides, those with seasonal allergies can also try over-the-counter and prescription drugs to either prevent their immune system from kicking into overdrive or calming it down once it does.
Antihistamines including Zyrtec, Claritin and Allegra block the effects of histamines, one of the types of chemicals released by the body in response to an allergen. Some are effective for four to six hours while others can persist for 12 to 24 hours but are more expensive.
Flonase and Nasacort are corticosteroid sprays that must be taken for up to a week in advance before becoming effective, and are best to start shortly before seasonal symptoms begin to appear.
Health care providers can prescribe stronger drugs if over-the-counter products don’t provide enough relief.
