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As the holidays approach and the weather warms up, we all want to spend more time outdoors, but allergies can be a real spoiler. Those who suffer from allergies around this time of the year, are more likely to attend functions inside or in areas where their allergies won’t flare up.
“Having to plan your social life around whether you are going to sneeze or not, is no way to live, especially while on holiday,” comments Bronwyn Ragavan, brand manager for decongestant brand Karvol. She continues by saying, there are various ways to keep your social life on track without having to work around your allergy’s schedule. With the right plan in place, you can minimise the impact of your allergies and reclaim your summer weekends.
If you are someone who suffers from allergies, Ragavan suggests that you may need to implement a before, during and after strategy for when you know you will be at an event that is going to trigger your allergy reaction:
Before: One of the first things to do is to pre-plan your decongestant. Make it part of your everyday morning routine to use your decongestant. This ensures you’re prepared even before symptoms have a chance to kick in. And even though you have pre-empted your allergy reaction, keeping your decongestant on hand while on the go, can provide quick relief when you need it, no matter where you are.
Steaming in the morning (and at night if your symptoms are particularly bad) with hot water and Karvol capsules can help open your airways and help you to breathe better, relieving any stuffiness you may be feeling. During the day if you can feel your symptoms worsening, apply the Karvol vapour chest rub to your chest for a quick breath of fresh air.
Before leaving the house, it is important to check the pollen forecast in the area you will be visiting. Many weather apps and websites can provide you with this information. The best time to be outdoors during allergy season is later in the afternoon or after it rains, when pollen levels are typically lower.
During: While outdoors, it is important to protect yourself by wearing hats and sunglasses. A wide-brimmed hat can keep allergens out of your hair, and sunglasses will shield your eyes from pollen and dust. Drink plenty of water while you are enjoying your day as this will help to thin mucus and help keep your sinuses clear.
After: Once you return home, hop in the shower and rinse off any lingering allergens on your skin and hair. Any items such as blankets, your clothes and backpacks also need to be washed to ensure that all allergens are removed. Remove your shoes before walking into the house.
Allergens can cling to your shoes and deposit themselves onto your carpet, couch… in fact anywhere in the house. When you are an allergy sufferer, cleanliness helps to control your symptoms.
With the holidays just around the corner, many of our events and activities are going to be taking place outdoors. There is no need to cancel these or avoid them due to allergies. Having a plan in place for before, during and after the event is all you need.