7 Ways to Control Spring Allergies in San Diego

Springtime in San Diego is beautiful, with blooming flowers and sunny days. For those with allergies, it can be challenging. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to control and manage your allergies during this season. In this blog, we will discuss seven ways to keep spring allergies at bay in San Diego.

 

Keep an Eye on Pollen Counts:

Stay informed about daily pollen counts by checking local weather websites or downloading a pollen count app. For San Diego, the allergy seasons peak during April, May, and September. When pollen levels are high, limit your time outdoors, especially during peak hours in the morning and evening. Awareness of pollen counts can help you plan your outdoor activities and minimize exposure.

 

Create a Pollen-Free Sanctuary Indoors:

Keep windows and doors closed during high pollen count days to prevent allergens from entering your home. The hotter and drier the day, the more pollen activity there is – especially between 10 am and 4 pm. Use air purifiers with HEPA filters to capture airborne pollen particles and maintain a clean indoor environment—regularly clean air filters and vents in your home to reduce allergen buildup.

 

Practice Good Personal Hygiene:

After spending time outdoors, change your clothes, and shower to remove pollen from your skin and hair. Wash your hands and face frequently, and avoid touching your face to reduce the risk of transferring pollen to your eyes and nose.

 

Protect Yourself Outdoors:

When you have to be outside during high pollen count days, wear sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat to protect your eyes and face from pollen. If necessary, consider wearing a pollen mask to filter out allergens and minimize inhalation.

 

Keep Your Living Space Clean:

Regularly clean your home to reduce the accumulation of pollen, dust, and pet dander. Vacuum frequently with a HEPA-filter vacuum cleaner and wash your bedding, curtains, and other soft furnishings in hot water to eliminate allergens.

Small pollen particles can effortlessly cling to any surface. The more time an object spends outside, the greater the chance of pollen accumulation. Avoid sleeping in bed linens packed with unseen allergens by keeping them away from outdoor exposure! Throughout the spring season, it’s best to dry your laundry indoors, either on a drying rack or in a dryer.

Want to do some spring cleaning while you’re at it? Here are some tips to get the best out of it or, even better, host a spring cleaning party!

 

Maintain Your Yard and Garden:

Keep your lawn trimmed and remove weeds to reduce pollen production in your yard. Choose allergy-friendly plants for your garden, such as native species, which tend to produce less pollen. Have you always dreamed of planting your spring garden with beautiful vegetables? Here are some valuable tips to get started and grow some of your favorites. Consult with a local nursery or plant shop for recommendations on low-allergen plants suitable for the San Diego climate. 

If you’re unsure if your garden is allergy-friendly, get some help! Throughout allergy season, assigning routine lawn care tasks to a professional landscaping service or a family member who isn’t affected by allergies is always helpful. Prolonged exposure to pollen-producing plants and weeds can significantly exacerbate your springtime allergies — and the effects can last beyond the immediate situation. Substantial exposure to allergens can prolong and intensify your allergy symptoms for several days afterward.

 

Consult an Allergist:

If you’re struggling to manage your spring allergies, consider seeing an allergist. They can help identify your specific triggers and recommend appropriate treatments, such as antihistamines, decongestants, or allergy shots. An allergist can also provide personalized advice on minimizing your exposure to allergens in the San Diego area.

 

Key Takeaways

By following these seven tips, you can take control of your spring allergies and enjoy the beauty of San Diego without discomfort. Remember that everyone’s allergy triggers and symptoms are different, so it’s essential to find the best strategies for you. Don’t let allergies hold you back from enjoying the vibrant spring season in San Diego!

Are spring allergies getting the best of you? We are your source for San Diego’s most qualified Allergy and Immunology Specialists. Find a doctor and make an appointment with us today.