Seasonal Allergies and Seniors
It is officially spring and warmer days are sure to follow. As the days grow longer, many seniors look forward to spending more time outdoors. It can be refreshing to watch the trees bud and flowers burst through the ground, especially after a long winter.
Yet, at the same time, signs of spring mean exposure to airborne substances, such as pollen. Spring is often the worst season for those who suffer from seasonal allergies. While seasonal allergies may not seem like a serious concern for younger persons, seasonal allergy symptoms can cause significant complications in the life of a senior. Seasonal allergies amplify chronic respiratory conditions, such as chronic bronchitis, asthma, or emphysema. As we head into spring, here are three tips to help seniors cope with seasonal allergies.
Understand Seasonal Allergy Medications 
Prescription and over-the-counter allergy medications, such as antihistamines, may not be ideal for seniors suffering from seasonal allergies. Seasonal allergy medications can cause a senior’s blood pressure to increase, which puts them at greater risk for heart failure or kidney disease. Seniors need to be aware of drug interactions, as seasonal allergy medications could interact with their routine prescriptions, causing urinary retention, dizziness, confusion, or drowsiness. Before taking any seasonal allergy medication, seniors need to have a conversation with their primary care physician. Their doctor can accurately diagnose whether or not their symptoms are related to seasonal allergies and prescribe the correct medication to lessen allergy symptoms.
Monitor the Environment
As warmer days approach, many seniors look forward to opening windows and airing out their house. However, keep in mind that the wind can quickly carry pollen and other allergens indoors. Seniors should practice caution when letting fresh air indoors. Look for the pollen count on your local weather station and keep windows closed when it is high. Open windows for short spurts of time to limit the amount of exposure to allergens. If you suffer severely from seasonal allergies, it is best to keep windows and doors closed. Instead, consider buying an air purifier for your home which can eliminate harmful airborne particles such as dust, dander, and pollen. Also, be sure to change your air filter regularly so that you are not circulating allergens trapped in an older filter.
Minimize Time Outdoors
Between reviving garden beds, mowing grass, or just enjoying warmer weather, it is tempting for many seniors to spend a lot of time outdoors as spring arrives. However, spending time outdoors only exposes you to seasonal allergens. It can even leave seniors feeling worse. Minimize your time outdoors so that you are not exposed to excessive pollen and other allergens for long periods of time. Again, pay attention to the pollen count and stay indoors when it is high. Wear sunglasses when outdoors to protect your eyes from irritation caused by allergens. When you come inside, wash your hands immediately and change outer layers of clothes to prevent spreading allergens throughout your home. Visiting Angels Mentor is here to help seniors through allergy season and beyond. We offer a variety of senior home care services that allow seniors to maintain their independence in the comfort of their own home. Our compassionate caregivers can assist seniors with their non-medical care needs, including escorting them outdoors on low pollen count days so that they can enjoy a few moments of fresh air. A more active, independent life at home is possible with Visiting Angels. Please contact us today by calling 440-974-0869 so that we can learn more about your situation.