Allergy Information
Welcome to allergy central. Austin has notoriously high levels of many seasonal allergens. If you suffer from chronic allergies, the best “treatment” is avoidance altogether. If you are allergic to substances carried by the wind, avoidance (by minimizing time outdoors) becomes key.
Seasonal Allergies in Austin: What to Expect
Medical Information
Pollen exploding from a cedar tree
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Your A/C can help a Lot
Welcome to allergy central. Austin has notoriously high levels of many seasonal allergens. If you suffer from chronic allergies, the best “treatment” is avoidance altogether. If you are allergic to substances carried by the wind, avoidance (by minimizing time outdoors) becomes key.
House Dust
Most “house dust” allergies have nothing to do with dust. The actual cause of 95% of home allergies is a tiny mite that lives in house dust, carpet, and bedding. These mites feed on the dead skin cells that we all shed constantly.
In order to minimize exposure to dust mites, pollen, molds, and other allergens we recommend that you:
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Use foam pillows instead of down or feather pillows
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Launder bedding regularly, including mattress pads and blankets, in hot water (at least 130°F)
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Vacuum carpets and clean floors frequently. If possible, remove carpeting from the bedroom or treat carpet with insecticide
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Minimize dust-collecting surfaces, such as shelves and stuffed animals
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Cover windows with shades or washable curtains instead of venetian blinds, and clean them often
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Ensure that all rooms are well-ventilated to minimize mold
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Keep windows closed to avoid contact with outdoor allergens
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Avoid locations that promote mold growth (damp, poorly ventilated areas). If possible, avoid sleeping in a basement or attic bedroom
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Avoid smoking or exposure to second-hand smoke
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As much as possible, avoid exposure to grasses and other outdoor allergens
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Eliminate house plants, especially in the bedroom
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Keep pets out of bedrooms
Medications
Many very effective allergy medications have gone “over the counter”. This has allowed easier access to these medications. The problem, however, is that these medications must be properly administered to be effective. For instance, there is a specific way to self-administer a nasal spray that makes it MUCH more effective. We are happy to discuss the proper dosage and administration of these meds when we see you at your next visit.