As the warmer weather gets underway, bringing vibrant blooms and sunny days, it also ushers in the challenge of managing pollen allergies.
For those who suffer from seasonal allergies, this time of year can be a time of constant sneezing, nasal congestion and itchy eyes. However, by combining the right strategies, making small changes to your environment and using effective methods, you can significantly reduce your symptoms and enjoy the warmer weather.
Below is a survival guide to help manage allergies this season, with tips from The Allergy Foundation of South Africa (AFSA):
- Keep Allergens at Bay with Regular Cleaning
Tip: During the pollen-heavy months, maintaining a clean living space is essential for reducing exposure to allergens like pollen and dust. Regularly cleaning your floors, surfaces, and upholstery can help minimise the allergen load in your home.
Professor Mike Levin, CEO of AFSA and Head of the Paediatric Asthma and Allergy Division at the Red Cross Children’s Hospital, emphasises the importance of using vacuum cleaners and cleaning products specifically designed to reduce allergens.
“Vacuum cleaners with a HEPA filter that traps allergens effectively are a must for allergy sufferers as they prevent allergens from recirculating into the air.” In addition to vacuuming, surfaces like countertops, windowsills, and other pollen-collecting areas should be wiped down frequently.
“Finding hypoallergenic cleaning products with the AFSA seal of approval (SOA) is recommended because these products are tested to ensure they don’t contain harsh chemicals or irritants that could exacerbate allergy symptoms.” - Wash Fabrics with Allergy-Friendly Laundry Detergents
Tip: Pollen clings to fabrics and house dust mites live in bedding and other soft furnishings. That’s why it’s important to regularly wash your clothes, bedding, and other textiles to reduce allergens effectively without using any harsh chemicals and detergents that can damage your skin.
AFSA recommends using SOA-endorsed allergy-friendly laundry detergents that are hypoallergenic and free from harsh fragrances and chemicals that can irritate sensitive skin. By washing your bedding and clothing frequently, you can minimise pollen exposure indoors. - Invest in Air Purification
Tip: Improving the air quality in your home is one of the most effective ways to reduce exposure to pollen and other airborne allergens.
“Air purifiers play a crucial role in reducing indoor allergens like dust mites, and outdoor allergens like pollens that can enter your home,” says Prof Levin. He recommends using air purifiers equipped with HEPA filters that remove a high percentage of airborne allergens such as pollen, mould spores, and dust mites.
For those dealing with dampness in addition to allergens, dehumidifiers can also help prevent the growth of mould—another common allergy trigger. “By placing air purifiers in your home, you can ensure cleaner, fresher air and reduce the number of airborne allergens circulating.” - Manage Symptoms with Nasal Sprays and OTC Medications
Tip: As pollen levels rise, nasal congestion, sneezing, and itchy eyes can become persistent issues. Nasal sprays and over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamines can help manage these symptoms effectively.
“Nasal rinses and sprays are great for clearing out pollen from the nasal passages,” advises Prof Levin. There are several AFSA approved nasal spray products that can provide quick relief from allergy symptoms and are effective at controlling sneezing and itching without causing drowsiness. - Monitor Pollen Levels and Adjust Outdoor Activities
Tip: Tracking pollen levels can help you plan your outdoor activities and reduce exposure to allergens. Pollen levels tend to be higher in the early morning and late afternoon, so try to avoid outdoor activities during these peak times. (You can track daily pollen counts at pollencount.co.za, which provides up-to-date information to help you monitor allergen levels in your area.)
Professor Levin recommends: “On high pollen count days, limit outdoor exposure and wear a mask and sunglasses to protect your eyes and respiratory system.” After spending time outdoors, it’s important to shower and change clothes to remove any pollen that may have stuck to your skin or hair. - Create an Allergen-Free Bedroom
Tip: Your bedroom should be a safe, allergen-free space where you can rest and recover from exposure to allergens during the day. Regularly cleaning and using protective bedding can help create an allergen-free zone.
“Creating an allergen-free bedroom is key to a restful night’s sleep during allergy season,” advises Prof Levin. He suggests using house dust mite covers on pillows and duvets, which prevent mites from getting through into the bedding while still allowing air to pass through. Bedding should also be washed regularly at a high temperature to kill the mites. - Take Care of Your Skin
Tip: Pollen exposure can cause skin irritation, particularly for people with sensitive skin or eczema. Using hypoallergenic emollients can soothe and protect your skin during allergy season.
“AFSA-approved emollients provide much needed hydration and protection for dry, irritated skin. These emollients are designed for sensitive skin, helping to restore the skin’s natural barrier while reducing the discomfort caused by allergies.”
The Value of the AFSA Seal of Approval
Professor Levin explains that the AFSA Seal of Approval given to South African products is a trusted indicator that products marketed to allergy sufferers truly meet the standards required to reduce environmental allergens or contain fewer irritant or allergy-triggering substances.
“The AFSA Seal of Approval is awarded to products that have been scientifically proven to meet stringent criteria. These products either demonstrate reduced allergen content,
chemical safety, or have verifiable proof of efficacy in reducing environmental allergens. In some cases, AFSA performs its own testing to ensure that the product’s claims are valid. When a product bears the AFSA Seal of Approval, it means that it has been rigorously evaluated and found to be suitable for people with asthma or other allergic disorders,” Professor Levin emphasises.
For more assistance on how to find allergy-friendly products visit https://youtu.be/TepGMIzxM7o.
For tips on eczema care visit: https://youtu.be/xqQdNGuSE-Y.
And for trustworthy allergy management see: https://youtu.be/X1ndRc0YEoY
For a full list of AFSA-approved products, visit the AFSA website and discover tools to help you breathe easier this spring.