Avoidance

What is avoidance?
Avoidance is staying away from a substance that causes an allergic reaction.

Suggestions for avoiding (some) allergens:

• Remain indoors:

• when the pollen count is high

• on windy days

• Dust proof the home, particularly the bedroom.

• Eliminate, when possible: wall-to-wall carpet, Venetian blinds, down-filled blankets or pillows, closets filled with clothes.

• Wash bedding, curtains, and clothing often and in hot water to eliminate dust mites.

• Keep bedding in dust covers when possible.

• Use air conditioning instead of opening the windows.

• Consider putting a dehumidifier in damp areas of the home, but remember to clean it often.

• Wear face masks when working in the yard.

• Go on vacation to the sea shore during the heaviest part of the pollen season.

Your physician will also have suggestions for avoiding the allergens that cause reactions.