Seasonal allergies, often called hay fever, happen when the immune system reacts to airborne pollen from trees, grasses or weeds. Common signs include sneezing, a runny or blocked nose, and itchy, watery eyes.
You cannot avoid the outdoors entirely, but a few habits can lower how much pollen reaches your nose and eyes.
- Check the local pollen forecast and plan outdoor time around it.
- Keep windows closed on high-pollen days.
- Shower and change clothes after spending time outside.
- Dry laundry in a dryer instead of on an outdoor line during pollen season.
If symptoms last for weeks, disturb your sleep, or come with wheezing or shortness of breath, talk to a doctor or allergist about the best way to manage them.
