How To Enjoy Nature When You Have Outdoor Allergies
Outdoor allergies can make a lot of activities difficult to enjoy, and finding relief can be tricky depending on how severe your allergies are. There are a variety of different types of outdoor allergies, and some are easier to manage than others. Fortunately, there are also a variety of treatments that can make a significant difference in the quality of life for those who struggle to spend time outside without having an allergic reaction. If you’re experiencing allergy symptoms on a regular basis when you go outside, keep reading to learn more about how you can still enjoy nature when you have outdoor allergies.
Can you still enjoy the outdoors with allergies?
It can be uncomfortable and irritating to go outside sometimes when you have allergies. No one wants to be walking in the woods, having a great time, then feel juniper pollen allergy symptoms coming on. One thing you can do is learn about the different types of pollens and when they’re most present in the air. Cedar and juniper pollen is released in December and January. Despite the name “Cedar Fever,” an allergic reaction won’t trigger a fever. However, a sinus infection following allergic rhinitis can, so it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Anyone planning to play outside with seasonal allergies can take a couple easy steps to minimize their interaction with the allergens that cause their symptoms. Certain allergens are more present at certain times of day, for example. Ragweed counts usually peak early midday, while grass pollen is stronger in the late afternoon and early evening. You can plan your activities for the times when the pollen counts are lower, so you won’t trigger your pollen allergy as much.
Knowing when it’s most dangerous to go outside is a good place to start, but most people don’t want to have to skip out on outdoor activities every time the pollen count is too high. If you enjoy playing outside but find yourself struggling due to allergy symptoms, you should talk to your healthcare provider about treatment options. You can look into allergy shots, drops, or even allergen immunotherapy to provide longer-term symptom relief. Your doctor can tell you more about which option is best for you and what your next steps should be.
How can you bring some nature indoors?
Another option when you’re struggling to go outside is to bring some nature indoors. Houseplants and indoor greenery are a great way to liven up your indoor space. You can look at indoor plant gift delivery services, which make it easy to have your favorite plants delivered right to your doorstep. Make sure you understand the growing instructions before adding any plants to your home, though, you want to stick to plants that you have the appropriate light and humidity levels to take care of.
You can also make several different home decor choices to help create a more natural environment in your home. Stick to materials like stone and wood that have a rustic appearance to give a more nature-friendly feel. Let in plenty of light; you can even look for areas where you can install new windows or add a skylight. One green design trend that’s gaining popularity is the addition of a “green wall” with faux vines or other wall plants to your living room. There are few more visually prominent ways to make your space look verdant.
People with outdoor allergies don’t need to avoid spending time outdoors entirely, especially with some of the newer treatments available to help manage allergy symptoms. Shots, allergy drops, and immunotherapy have made a meaningful difference for millions of allergy sufferers, so it may be a good idea to ask your doctor if you’re a good candidate for any of those treatment options. Even smaller changes like going out at different times of day can help reduce your symptoms. Fans of natural-looking spaces can also incorporate hypoallergenic plants or other types of faux greenery into their home design. No matter what approach you take, you should never let your allergies keep you from enjoying the beauty of nature.
