This post is sponsored by Bayer. To make sure these products are right for you, always read and follow the label.
Spring is finally upon us! That means sunnier skies (hopefully!), warmer temperatures (yes please!) and vacation season (bring it on!). We’re finally starting to see flowers in bloom around and budding trees around these parts. As much as we’re celebrating the arrival of May, for many of us that also means dealing with seasonal allergies – myself included.
Last year my family spent some time up north – hoping to do a little fishing, canoeing and BBQing. Well, things didn’t go so well for me as I didn’t think my allergies would be that big of a problem. I spent most of the weekend sneezing and sitting indoors as much as possible. My eyes were puffy, my nose was constantly running and I had what felt like a neverending headache.
The kids spent the majority of the time hanging out with my husband – it was not the weekend getaway I had in envisioned.
My allergist said last spring and summer was horrible for allergy sufferers and hopefully this year won’t be as bad. But, I’m not taking any chances – I’m fully prepared for a sneeze-free allergy season this year.
No one likes to walk around sneezing and sniffling. And certainly not while on vacation! If you’re a allergy sufferer heading on vacation soon, here are some steps you can take to make travelling with seasonal allergies much more manageable.
Common Causes and Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies
The most common causes of seasonal allergies in the spring and summer are pollen, mold, and dust mites from trees, grasses, weeds, and other plants.
Your body treats these allergens as harmful substances and releases histamine in response. It’s this reaction that causes your sneezing, congestion, runny nose, scratchy throat, and itchy, watery eyes.
While seasonal allergies are common, there is no cure. Fortunately, there are widely available medications and easy strategies you can use to prevent seasonal allergies from ruining your vacation.
Prevention and Management of Seasonal Allergies
Before you officially enter vacation mode, a quick visit with your doctor can identify any short-term changes to manage your symptoms better.
Make sure medications are filled and up to date. Depending on your symptoms, you may want to pack a saline nasal spray, a sinus rinse bottle, a neti pot, antihistamines, and a decongestant, as well as any prescription medications your doctor might prescribe.
For some allergy sufferers, symptoms can include sinus pressure and sinus congestion. Make sure you’re picking up the right allergy medication for you. AERIUS® Dual Action 12hr is an antihistamine that delivers multi-symptom allergy relief for 12 hours, including relief from nasal congestion and stuffiness.
Claritin® Allergy + Sinus Extra Strength gives you 24-hour non-drowsy relief from bothersome allergy symptoms caused by pollen, ragweed, grass, dust, pets and molds.
Also, be sure to check the weather, pollen, and air quality forecast for your destination. Resources like The Weather Network (if travelling in Canada) and The Weather Channel (for those heading to the U.S.) can help you know what to expect.
Traveling by Air
Airplanes are known for dry air, which spells trouble for everyday travelers and those with seasonal allergies alike.
Be sure to pack your allergy medications in your carry-on so you have easy access to them. Use them as needed and directed to alleviate any discomfort caused by the dry air.
Have your allergy medication at hand before the first signs of symptoms. Antihistamines can help decrease sneezing, runny nose and itchy-watery eyes.
Also, stay hydrated and drink plenty of water during your flight. So you might want to skip the alcoholic beverages while in the air! The dehydrating effect of the alcohol, combined with the recycled air, can trigger symptoms.
Traveling by Car
Your car’s carpeting, upholstery, and ventilation system can be home to dust, mold, and pollen, making for an unpleasant trip. Fortunately, there are some easy ways to improve your car’s air quality.
Most newer models have cabin air filters, which recirculate the air. Make sure your filter is clean and replace it if needed to keep the air free of allergens.
Before you leave, roll down the car’s windows and run the air conditioning for 10 minutes. This step can help flush out any dust or mold inside the vents.
If plants (trees, grass, pollen and ragweed) are at fault for your allergy symptoms, control the air inside by keeping the windows closed once you’re on the road. Turning on the air conditioner is a better way to keep cool while keeping your symptoms in check.
Use the recirculation setting to prevent any allergens from getting into the car.
Another way to improve the air quality in your car is to travel during off-peak hours. Doing so will help you avoid the higher levels of air pollution associated with rush hour. It might even help you reach your destination quicker!
Booking Allergy-Friendly Accommodations
The carpeting, upholstery, and mattresses in hotels can be worrisome for allergy sufferers. But more and more hotels are offering allergy-friendly rooms with pillow and mattress covers, and hypoallergenic linens to help combat allergens.
When booking your hotel, look for one that is smoke-free and ask for a room in a dry, sunny area away from the pool. You can also request that the room’s air conditioning filter be changed before your arrival and the windows are kept closed.
Once you’ve checked in, fill the tub with hot water or run the shower to increase the humidity in your room. Also, keep a saline spray nearby if the air in the room dries out again.
If possible, don’t unpack your clothes. The closet and the drawers are a hot spot for mold, and you could increase your chances of an allergy attack if you store your clothes in these areas.
Travelling with seasonal allergies doesn’t have to be a show stopper. With these quick and easy tips, you can prevent and manage your seasonal allergies so you can enjoy that much-deserved vacation.
This post is sponsored by Bayer. To make sure these products are right for you, always read and follow the label.
