Surviving seasonal allergies in the autumn season

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Sultan Kiani

Autumn is just around the corner, bringing a sigh of relief after months of intense heatwaves and perilous floods. October and November mark the seasonal shift from summer to winter, with a dry and pleasantly moderate climate. Nonetheless, the season brings its own challenges for those prone to seasonal allergies.

Extremely dry air fuels smog, creating added difficulties for vulnerable individuals. People commonly experience respiratory allergies and itchy eyes during this season. Here are some key tips for managing these common illnesses during the fall season.

Improving Indoor Air Quality

As air quality deteriorates, it is generally best to spend more time indoors to reduce exposure. However, unclean enclosed spaces often result in poor indoor air quality, which can be just as damaging to your health. Whether it is your personal room, office cabin, or vehicle, if the air inside is polluted, it cannot serve as a safe refuge from smog.

• Keep your rooms clean to eliminate allergens that may be lurking inside. Do not forget to wear a face mask while cleaning and use a vacuum cleaner if possible.

• Always remember to wash your air-conditioner filter regularly if you are using one.

• Using a reliable air purifier can also help improve indoor air quality.

• Do not neglect your car’s cabin filter. Always use a genuine filter and clean or replace it as needed.

• Avoid using strong chemical-based cleaning solutions, as they may exacerbate allergies.

• Substandard room air fresheners are also known to trigger health problems.

Health Begins with Good Food and Sound Sleep

Poor diet and insufficient rest weaken immunity, making you more prone to seasonal allergies. Skipping meals, eating junk food, and not getting enough peaceful sleep are becoming common due to today’s hectic routine. While such bad habits may not be the root causes, they can act as catalysts, triggering seasonal allergies by compromising your immune system.

• Quit smoking – it causes numerous diseases and makes seasonal allergies worse. Remember, even the smallest amount of tobacco, in any form, is harmful to your health.

• Mild weather may mask your thirst, yet unnoticed dehydration can aggravate seasonal allergies. That is why drinking enough water is crucial to staying healthy.

• Eat a healthy, balanced diet that includes fresh fruits and vegetables while cutting down on processed snacks, fast food, and sugary sodas.

• While a cup of coffee or two will not hurt, heavy consumption of caffeinated beverages can take a toll on your health.

Traveling in Smog with Caution

Dry air and cooler temperatures create ideal conditions for smog, a serious problem engulfing South Asian megacities like Lahore. Although we cannot stay indoors all season to avoid toxic air, some simple measures can help reduce exposure and the risk of allergic diseases.

• Always wear a face mask when stepping out, as it helps block harmful particles in polluted air.

• Avoid riding two-wheelers or walking for long distances when smog levels are extremely high. Prefer a vehicle with air-conditioning and switch to recirculation mode to block out air pollution.

• Wearing tactical glasses may sound crazy, but they can effectively protect your eyes from irritants in the atmosphere.

• Check the weather forecast for smog levels before planning outdoor activities, especially sports events. Also postpone jogging or morning walks until the air quality improves to acceptable levels.

• Frequently wash your eyes with clean water and take a shower after returning home to get rid of pollutants.

Taking Medications for Allergy Relief

If you are sensitive to seasonal allergies, preparing ahead of the autumn season is the best way to manage your health. Sensitive individuals may need to take antihistamines and other medications to keep allergies under control during the dry climate.

• Consult a physician who can prescribe antihistamines after reviewing your medical history. Make sure you have enough stock of necessary medications.

• Always inform your doctor about any regular medications you are taking, such as painkillers, insulin, ACE inhibitors, or psychotropic drugs, because these could interact with antihistamines.

• Inhalers are generally considered a quick-relief option for severe respiratory allergies. If you have asthma or are prone to serious allergic attacks, you should carry one at all times.

• Nasal sprays can help relieve allergic rhinitis, while artificial tears or anti-inflammatory drops help ease eye irritation.

• Follow your physician’s instructions or read the label carefully when using over-the-counter medicines.

• Avoid prolonged use of over-the-counter medications, particularly if you have multiple health conditions.