Top tips for spring

Forecasters are predicting a longer, and earlier pollen season thanks to a warm start to the year and recent heavy rains creating ideal growing conditions. For those of us with asthma and allergies, it’s more important than ever to take sensible precautions in the months ahead.

1. Stay indoors (when you can)

Reduce your exposure to pollen by staying inside, with windows and doors shut when pollen is at its peak, particularly in the early morning and on windy days. Check out the Foundation’s online guide for when various types of pollens are in the air. If you are not sure which pollens trigger your allergies or asthma, it may be worth asking your healthcare practitioner for a skin prick test.

2. Dry your bedding and clothes indoors

Pollen will drift onto washing hung outside. To avoid bringing pollen particles into your home, dry clothes inside or in a drier. Be sure to wash your bedding and clothes in hot, soapy water to remove any pollen that has become attached.

3. Shower at night

Pollen, dust and other allergens can accumulate on clothes and skin throughout the day. Having a hot shower at night will help remove these triggers before bed. A hot shower is also a good way to relieve a congested nose caused by allergies.

4. Using air conditioning

During spring and summer, unfiltered, outdoor air will bring in more pollen. Using an air conditioner can help re-circulate and filter this air, reducing the number of triggers in your home.

5. Keep medication handy

Make sure that whenever you are out and about, you have your medication with you to deal with any issues. Be sure to keep using your medication as directed and follow your Asthma Action Plan if you have an allergy related asthma flare up.

6. Beware of problem plants

Some plants are more prolific pollen producers. Early in the season, pines are a major source of pollen (July to September), whereas over summer various grasses, privet hedges and plantains can cause serious issues. If any of these plants are triggers, consider removing them from your garden.

7. Reduce gardening activities

Mowing, weeding and hedge-trimming can stir up pollen, and other allergens like dust and spores. If you are sensitive to these triggers, then try and find someone else to do these jobs or wear a mask if you need to do them yourself.

8. BBQs and outdoor fires

Another asthma trigger to be aware of over spring and summer is smoke. Pollution particles from smoke are small enough to get into your lungs and quickly irritate your airways. Keep your distance from BBQs and outdoor fires over spring and summer.