It’s mid September, your kids are back in school, and the routine is just starting to feel normal again. Still, there’s one annual routine we know you’d rather do without: your seasonal allergies! You can use over-the-counter allergy medications combined with home maintenance tips to make your house a safe haven from the pollution outdoors!

Although most sufferers think their allergies are purely spring culprits, many allergens are actually heightened in the fall!

So as you get set to enjoy crisp autumn air and colorful leaves, we’ve got a few steps you can take to avoid distracting allergy symptoms!

What are normal symptoms of fall allergies?

• Runny nose
• Watery eyes
• Sneezing
• Coughing
• Itchy eyes and nose
• Dark circles under the eyes

If you’ve had any of these common symptoms lately, you’re probably experiencing fall allergies.

How can I treat my allergies?

Simple over the counter medications can help when treating allergies year round:

• Steroid nasal sprays – reduce inflammation in your nose
• Antihistamines – help stop sneezing, sniffling, and itching
• Decongestants – help clear mucus out of your nose
• Antihistamine eye drops
• Immunotherapy in the form of allergy shots or oral tablets or drops

Household tips to manage symptoms

• Stay indoors with the doors and windows closed when pollen is at its peak (usually in the mornings). Check pollen counts in your area.
• Before turning on your heat for the first time this season, clean your heating vents and change the filter. Bits of mold and other allergens can get trapped in the vents over the summer and will fill the air as soon as you start the furnace.
• Get your ducts cleaned. Ductwork can be a breeding ground for allergens!
• Use a HEPA filter in your heating system to remove pollen, mold, and other particles from the air. These are designed specifically for allergy prone homes.
• Use a whole home humidifier to maintain a level humidity in the air. As cool air approaches, the dryness will create new waves of dust mites, while giving you a scratchy throat and nose.

These tips can be a lifesaver when it comes to seasonal allergies. Stay ahead of the curve and brace yourself for the fall!