Seasonal allergies are an exceedingly common ailment; many of us will struggle with allergies to things like pollen at one point or another in our lives. If you struggle with allergies, you may be surprised to know that there are many different options available to you to help manage your symptoms.

Allergies from pollen are stronger in the morning and the evening, so if you suffer from nagging allergies, try to remember to keep your windows closed during these times of the day. As enjoyable as the fresh air may be, it will cause you to be miserable from the impact of your allergies.

Whenever possible, choose tile, linoleum, or hardwood floors over carpeting. Even with regular vacuuming, carpet traps dust, pollen, pet dander, and many other common allergens. Solid floor types are easier to keep clean and allergen-free. If you prefer the soft feeling of carpet, rugs can be used. Area rugs trap less irritants, are easier to keep clean, and less expensive to replace.

While cleaning your home, avoid using feather dusters, which are notorious for stirring up all kinds of dust and allergens. Instead, gently wipe household surfaces with disposable dirt-grabbing cleaner or microfiber cloths. This ensures that you do not release clouds of dust, pet dander and other allergens into the air.

There are many allergy and antihistamine products available that you can purchase without a prescription. You have to remember that not everyone achieve the relief that they are seeking from these products. See if your doctor will give you a sample or get the smallest amount you can. If that particular product does not alleviate your allergic symptoms, you can move onto the next one without throwing away your money.

If allergies are causing your nose to drip constantly, you might experience chafing, redness and soreness around your nostrils. Using paper tissues to stop drips can make this condition even worse. Instead, discretely dab at your nose with a cotton cloth or handkerchief or apply Vaseline to your nostrils to protect your skin.

If your child frequently complains of symptoms like a stuffy nose, or frequent sneezing, allergies may be to blame. Over time, these problems can make it difficult for your child to perform well in class, or reach their full potential. In these cases, allergy therapy may produce a marked difference in the way your child feels, and behaves.

Make sure you keep a close eye on the clock. Some experts believe that allergies are at their worst during the early morning to late morning hours. If you have to go out, limit your activity to a short period of time.

Just because you have pollen allergies, doesn’t mean you have to live life without the beauty of flowers. Instead, learn which varieties are best, and use them to fill your flower beds, and home. Avoid planting the most serious offenders: daisies, sunflowers, chrysanthemums and dahlias. Instead, opt for gladiolus, periwinkles, and begonias.

If you own pets and have allergies, you might be unsure if you are allergic to your pets. Make an appointment with an allergist; a doctor can run tests to determine whether or not you are allergic to pet dander. If you pet is the cause, it is unlikely that you will have to go as far as getting rid of the pet. That said, you will likely have to change a few things.

The shabby-chic look is making a comeback in home fashions. Its signature overstuffed sofas, chairs, and loveseats can wreak havoc on your allergies. Studies have shown, that this type of furniture is often loaded with a higher-than-average amount of notorious allergens like goat hair, burlap, jute, and even cattle dander. Avoid these decorative pieces at all costs.

Reduce the number of carpets and rugs kept in your house. These tend to attract pollen and dust. Rugs add softness to your home decor, but make certain they are washed often to prevent accumulation of allergens.

Many children have difficulty swallowing medication in pill or capsule form, making it a major undertaking to get allergy medication down without tears or a fight. If this sounds like your little one, consider switching to an orally disintegrating tablet. These lozenges dissolve quickly on the tongue and taste like fruit or mint.

If you have at least one known food allergy, there is a fair chance that you may be allergic to other foods in the same group. For example, you may be allergic to crustaceans, shellfish or both. Always exercise caution when trying new foods for the first time, especially if you have ever experienced an allergic reaction.

You do not have to accept allergy symptoms such as watery eyes, a runny nose, and difficulty breathing as simply inevitable. There are many things that you can do to gain relief from seasonal allergies; hiding out inside is no longer your only option! So go out and enjoy the world!

Avoid Allergic Attacks With These Tips was originally published on Spring