It's allergy season again and pollen counts are up across much of the nation. And if you think you can retreat indoors to relieve your sniffles, think again.
Two thirds of people with allergies suffer them year round, said allergist James Sublett, M.D., co-founder of Family Allergy & Asthma in Lousville, Ky. And the leading cause of those year-round allergies are dust mites, animals and cockroaches, he said, all of which make their homes inside of ours.
Outdoor allergens will make it into our homes through normal ventilation, Sublett said. "And of course it gets tracked in, too."
If you can't escape allergens, it's time to go on the attack. Here are Sublett's tips on allergy-proofing each room of your home.
The Bedroom
Your bedroom deserves the most attention, Sublett said, since you lie and breathe there for eight or so hours a night. Dust mites live primarily in bedding, so buy a set of high-quality, mite-proof encasements for your pillows and mattress. They should be tightly woven with zippers that seal completely. Wash all your bedding weekly in any temperature of water to kill any mites. Doing this weekly is key as it ensures you eliminate both mites and their eggs before they hatch, Sublett said.
If you're allergic to pollen, it's a good idea to shower at night before bed. And consider keeping your room a pet-free zone, as a Golden Retriever can track in allergens on a high pollen day.