Shape Magazine
Allergies & Asthma
- Reduce pet dander. If you have allergies, you should avoid pets with feathers or fur like birds, dogs and cats. Animal saliva and dead skin, or pet dander, can cause allergic reactions. Additionally, dogs and cats that frolic outdoors can collect pollen in their fur and transport it into your home. If you can't bear to part with your pet, at least keep it out of the bedroom. Especially during hay fever season, bathe your pet as frequently as possible or wipe him down when he comes in from the yard with a premoistened cloth, such as Simple Solution Allergy Relief from Pets ($7; petco.com).
- Protect against pollen. Experts estimate that 35 million Americans suffer from allergies because of airborne pollen, The number one anti-allergy move is to keep triggers at bay, so be sure to leave your windows and doors shut during pollen season. Run the air conditioner on the "recycle" setting, which filters indoor air, trapping any particles that did sneak inside. Also rinse or replace the filter every two weeks to remove dust and keep it running efficiently.
- Clear the air. Almost half of seasonal allergy sufferers are also bothered by irritants such as fragrances and cleaning products. To breathe easier, invest in a HEPA air purifier, which filters out aggravating indoor pollutants. A good pick: Honeywell HEPA Tower Air Purifier ($250; target.com).
- Rethink your bedtime routine. Hopping in the shower in the morning is one way to kick-start your day, but switching to a nighttime routine during the spring and summer can curb your symptoms. You'll wash away the allergens that stick to your hair and face, so they won't rub off on your pillow and irritate your eyes and nose. At the very least, gently clean your eyelids.
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