Working in the garden in spring

Spring is a beloved season for the awakening of nature, but for those who suffer from seasonal allergies, working in the garden can be a challenge. Here are some practical tips to protect yourself from spring allergies while gardening.

1. Choosing the right time for gardening

Pollen levels in the air vary throughout the day. Gardening is best done in the early morning or evening, when pollen levels are generally lower. Avoid dry, windy days, as they help disperse pollen.

2. Protect your airways and eyes

Wearing dust masks when working outdoors helps filter out pollen and reduce the inhalation of allergens. Wearing sunglasses protects your eyes from direct exposure to pollen, reducing irritation and itching.

3. Create a hypoallergenic garden

Plant choice can significantly affect pollen exposure. Choose plants that produce little pollen or that attract pollinating insects rather than scattering pollen into the air. Avoid grasses and highly allergenic plants. Maintain a well-groomed lawn, starting mowing as early as March, to prevent pollen-releasing grasses from blooming. Cifo

4. Monitor pollen levels

Regularly checking pollen bulletins helps you plan outdoor activities during periods of low pollen count. Keep windows closed during the hours of highest pollen count, usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., to limit the entry of allergens into your home.

5. Maintain personal and environmental hygiene

After working in the garden, it is a good idea to shower and wash your hair to remove any residual pollen. Changing the clothes you wear while gardening will help prevent the transfer of pollen into your home. Indoors, using air purifiers with HEPA filters can help keep your home free of allergens.

6. Take preventative medications

In agreement with your doctor, taking antihistamines or starting specific immunotherapy before the allergy season can help control symptoms. These therapies aim to modulate the immune response to allergens, reducing the intensity of allergic reactions. Policlinico di Milano

Conclusion

Gardening in the spring can be enjoyable even for allergy sufferers, if you take the right precautions. By following these tips, you can reduce your exposure to pollen and enjoy outdoor activities safely.