Spring has sprung at Elon, which means the campus is teaming with students enjoying the warm weather by studying outside and taking part in outdoor activities, but unfortunately for some, this also means allergy season is in full effect.
I can guarantee you that no one wants to be stuck in their dorm on a beautiful day, but as seasons change, people are more likely to get sick. According to Bustle, taking measures to reduce your chances of suffering from seasonal allergies, like preparing in advance, can make you less likely to contract a spring cold. To avoid getting sick, it’s important to keep your immune system strong and healthy by getting enough sleep, staying hydrated, cleaning surfaces, and keeping your hands clean. Over the counter medication, natural remedies, and even opting for a little extra downtime, can help you combat the effect of allergies.
As thankful as I am to have Elon’s beautiful spring weather, the cloud of pollen that surrounds this campus seems endless. If you’re like me and so many others at Elon, allergy season is hitting us hard. Whether you’re out on campus, in class, or in your dorm, these allergy tips and tricks will be sure to help.
#1. Over the counter medicine can help alleviate even your worst allergy symptoms.
My top OTC medication for allergies would be:
Allegra and Claritin, both non-drowsy medications, which last for 24 hrs providing instant relief from indoor and outdoor allergies. Zyrtec, for those allergic to pollen and struggle with common allergy symptoms. Mucinex, if your symptoms are similar to ones of a cold, and Benadryl, for nighttime relief and sleep aid.
#2. Keep your immune system healthy, to avoid getting sick during allergy season.
Your immune system is what defends you against germs and viruses. To keep it strong and healthy during allergy season, drink plenty of water, get enough sleep, eat nutritiously, and keep your hands and other surfaces clean. For an immune system boost, supplements like Emergen-C and Airborne tablets offer daily immune support and essential vitamins and minerals. Since sleep is a crucial factor in staying healthy, it’s recommended for adults to get 6 to 10 hours of sleep per night. On average, most college students sleep only for 6 to 6.9 hours. When trying to get these extra Z’s at night or by napping during the day, opt for a sleep mask and earplugs, to block all light and fade out noise. To keep your immune system in tip-top shape, prepare for allergy season by packing a water bottle, pocket-sized hand sanitizer, tissues, and one of the allergy medications listed above (if needed), in your bag to lessen your chances of getting sick.
#3. Even when your indoors, your outdoor allergies can still cause a reaction.
After a long day outside, if your allergies are particularly bad, “Everyday Health” recommends that you take your shoes off and change as soon as you get home or back to your dorm, to prevent you from dragging allergens inside. If you’re allergic to pollen, they also recommend that you shower at night to wash away any remaining before bed and to keep your windows closed and AC running. In contrast, if your allergies stem from inside things like dust and mold, keeping your windows open and having fresh air circulate, can help clear these allergens. An air purifier can also help. Allergens float in the air all around us and move as we do. Air purifiers can collect and filter these allergens as they float by, trapping them before they’re inhaled ultimately reducing their effects.
Whether your allergies come and go without you even knowing or they’re more severe and stay year-round, all allergies can affect your well-being. Remember to keep hydrated, to get plenty of sleep, and to take advantage of downtime. If you’re not feeling your best don’t overdo it. On days like this, resting, catching up on sleep, and maybe even taking a sick day will get you feeling as new as soon as possible.