For those unaffected by hay fever and other allergies, the summer season is a time of fun and adventure in the great outdoors. For those who suffer from seasonal allergies, this time of year can be a real challenge.

If you want to enjoy the warm weather and abundant sunshine without the itching, redness and watery eyes, now is the time to get ready.

The spring and summer seasons will be here before you know it, but there is still time to allergy-proof your home and create an outdoor environment conducive to your allergen sensitivities.

See Also: Dust Allergies and How to Treat Them.

Here are some tips to protect yourself from the discomfort of seasonal allergies.

• Give your carpets a good shampooing before allergy season begins. Hidden dirt in the carpets can trigger seasonal allergies or make your symptoms worse.
• Wash your bedding weekly and keep your bedroom neat and tidy. This will help prevent outdoor allergens from accumulating on your sheets, pillows and carpets.
• Watch the weather forecast and keep your windows closed on high allergen days.
• Use the recirculation feature on your air conditioning system to keep the air as pollen-free as possible.
• Invest in a quality HEPA filter for your vacuum cleaner and change the filter frequently.
• Make sure your heating and air conditioner filters are clean and replace them when they get dirty.
• Control the humidity levels in your home. High humidity will encourage the growth of mold and mildew, which can trigger seasonal allergies and exacerbate your symptoms.
• Protect your eyes from airborne pollen with a quality pair of sunglasses. Choose wraparound sunglasses for maximum protection.
• Mow your lawn on low allergen days and avoid contact with fresh-mown grass. Newly mown grass can trap pollen particles and make your allergies worse.
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect your hair and face from airborne pollen and other allergens.
• Enjoy the great outdoors early in the morning and in the evening, when pollen counts tend to be at their lowest.
• Remove pollen from your skin and hair by showering as soon as you come back indoors.
• Wash your clothes as soon as possible after spending time outdoors.
• Experiment with over-the-counter allergy medications and choose the ones that work best for you. These medications can be taken to lessen symptoms, or as a preventative during allergy season.

You do not have to hide indoors when the sun is shining and everyone else is enjoying the wonderful weather.

With a few preparations and some timely precautions, you can enjoy the great outdoors without succumbing to your seasonal allergy symptoms.