Allergies One of the biggest health concerns during springtime is allergies . As trees , flowers and grasses begin to bloom , pollen fills the air and triggers allergic reactions for many of us . To minimise your exposure to allergens :
• Keep windows closed to prevent pollen from entering your home
• Change your clothes and take a shower after spending time outdoors to remove pollen from your body
• Regularly clean and dust your home to reduce indoor allergens
• Consult with a doctor to identify your specific allergies and consider taking over-the-counter antihistamines or prescription medication to alleviate symptoms
Asthma Attacks Spring can also be a challenging time for asthma sufferers . Pollen and other allergens can trigger asthma attacks , which makes it crucial to manage your condition effectively . Here are some tips to keep your asthma under control :
• Follow your prescribed asthma management plan , taking your medication as directed
• Keep track of pollen counts in your area and plan outdoor activities accordingly
• Avoid exposure to other asthma triggers , such as dust , pet dander and cigarette smoke
• If you experience asthma symptoms , seek medical attention promptly
Hay Fever Hay fever , also known as seasonal allergic rhinitis , is another common health concern during spring . Symptoms include sneezing , runny nose , itchy eyes and congestion . To combat hay fever :
• Stay indoors during peak pollen hours , typically early in the morning and late in the evening
• Use saline nasal sprays to flush out allergens and relieve congestion
• Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from pollen
• Avoid hanging laundry outside to prevent pollen from sticking to your clothes and bedding
Skin Protection As the weather warms up , it ' s important to protect your skin from the sun ' s harmful UV rays .
Follow these guidelines to keep your skin healthy :
• Apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher , even on cloudy days
• Wear protective clothing such as a hat , sunglasses and long-sleeved shirts
• Seek shade during the peak hours of sunlight , typically between 10am and 4pm
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and using moisturisers to prevent dry skin
Insect Bites and Bee Stings In addition to the concerns mentioned above , springtime also brings about an increase in insect activity , including mosquitos , ants and bees . Insect bites and bee stings can cause discomfort and sometimes lead to allergic reactions . Here are some tips to protect yourself and manage insect bites and bee stings :
• Use insect repellents that are effective against a wide range of insects . Apply them to exposed skin and clothing following the instructions on the label
• Avoid wearing brightly coloured clothing and strong fragrances , as these can attract insects
• Install screens on windows and doors to prevent insects from entering your home
• When spending time outdoors , wear long sleeves , long pants and closed shoes to minimise exposed skin
• If you are stung by a bee , carefully remove the stinger by scraping it off with a credit card or your fingernail . Avoid squeezing or pinching the stinger , as this can release more venom
• Apply a cold compress or ice pack to reduce pain and swelling from insect bites and bee stings
• Over-the-counter antihistamines and hydrocortisone creams can help relieve itching and inflammation caused by insect bites
• Seek medical attention if you experience severe allergic reactions , such as difficulty breathing , swelling of the face or throat and dizziness
Remember , prevention is key when it comes to insect bites and bee stings . By taking precautions and responding appropriately if bitten or stung , you can minimise the discomfort and potential risks associated with these common springtime concerns .
Bonitas Member Magazine Issue 3 | 2023
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