Pick the Right Time of Day
If you feel comfortable doing so, plan some runs in the evening.
The amount of pollen in the air is highest between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m., so go ahead and use this as an excuse to sleep in. Nighttime typically has a lower count, but it's always best to double check that day since wind can factor in.
The best time to run outside during allergy season? Right after a rainstorm. The dryer the weather, the worse allergens tend to be.
Identify a Treatment Plan
Antihistamines are a common treatment for seasonal allergies and can be purchased over the counter. Make sure to look for a non-sedating one, though, so you don't experience drowsiness.
In addition to taking an antihistamine, other small changes can help. Wearing sunglasses during a run can protect your eyes from pollen, and using a nasal spray after a run will help remove any allergens that are hanging around your nasal cavities and making you feel worse.
Also, be sure to wash your hair and clothing often. Allergens can cling to these places, too, exacerbating your symptoms.
Know the Facts
There's a common belief that eating local, "raw" honey can ease allergy symptoms by exposing you to the area's pollen and creating a tolerance, similar to how allergy shots work. However, the pollen in honey, which makes up a low-dosage to begin with, is actually the wrong kind.
The airborne pollen causing your allergies is most likely from trees, grasses and weeds, not flowers. So while that honey may taste delicious, there isn't any scientific proof that eating it will improve your allergies.
Try Something New
If you're still not finding relief from your allergy symptoms, be open to trying something new and experimenting. For example, some foods can trigger seasonal allergies, so you may want to reduce or cut them out of your diet in the springtime to see if it makes a difference.
If you're allergic to grass pollen, try avoiding cherries, oranges, pears and tomatoes. These foods contain proteins that cross-react with grass pollen, worsening your allergy symptoms.
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