Outdoor and indoor workers alike are gearing up for the first day of spring, also known as the beginning of allergy season to many.
According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), tree, grass and weed pollen, mold spores, dust mites, cockroaches, and cat dog and rodent dander are among the most common allergies Americans face.
Although facing them may seem just like another daily task to some, the AAFA estimates that allergies contribute about $17.5 billion in healthcare costs along with 6 million lost work and school days.
Winter 2016 was mild according to weather experts, which means this spring could spell trouble for those with allergies.
Besides using decongestants, antihistamines or nasal sprays, American Family Care (AFC), a health clinic company, suggests that sufferers also do the following to alleviate contact with seasonal allergens:
- Stay inside during the times of the year when symptoms surface.
- Keep car and house windows closed, use air conditioning instead.
- Take a shower before bed to rinse pollen off hair and skin.
- Wear a dust mask outside.
The company also identified five activities that could make allergies worse. Click through the slideshow to view each of the habits and how you could avoid irritating existing allergies.