Infographic: Tips for Avoiding Seasonal Allergy Flare-Ups

Download Our Spring Allergies Infographic and Follow These Quick Tips

You get seasonal allergies when your immune system overreacts to substances like plant pollen and pet dander. This reaction can give you symptoms like a runny nose, a scratchy throat, sneezing, itchy or water eyes, or sinus pain. 

Learn more about springtime allergy culprits, and what you can do to reduce reactions.

Airborne Pollen

In the spring, allergies are usually triggered by tree pollen. The most common trees to cause allergic reactions are:

• Oak
• Aspen
• Hickory
• Ash
• Birch
• Willow
• Cedar

Talk to your doctor or nurse practitioner if you think you're reacting to pollen.

Spring Cleaning

Spring cleaning is the time to clear out clutter and hit spots you don't clean every week. Giving your home the Marie Kondo treatment might do wonders for your mood, but it can also trigger allergies. 

Follow these tips to avoid allergy flare-ups:

• Keep windows closed to avoid letting pollen and mold inside.
• Avoid using outdoor clotheslines. Wet clothes attract pollen. 
• Dry your carpets after shampooing. Dust mites like damp wood or padding under carpets. 
• Use a damp cloth to dust. Dry dusting sends dust back into the air. 

Pet Dander

Dander is microscopic flecks of skin shed by animals. It is often too small to be seen, but is the perfect size to get caught in fabrics and float around your home. 

Follow these tips to limit pet dander in your home:

• Brush pets outside regularly or take them to the groomer. 
• Avoid bathing pets too often. Dry skin flakes more. 
• Keep pets off furniture. 
• Vacuum regularly using a high efficiency particulate air filter (HEPA) or a vacuum with a bag. 
• Wash hands after handling your pet. 

Learn More About Managing Seasonal Allergies

Call your primary care provider if you have allergy symptoms. If you're new to Baystate Health, call 413-794-5412 to schedule an appointment.