Allergies and Exercise!
Although some days it still feels like winter, spring is upon us and in the Ohio Valley that means allergies for many of us. Any outdoor activity can be difficult, particularly exercising. Sebastian Lighvani, M.D., director of New York Allergy and Asthma has a few suggestions on how to continue exercising outdoors.
Now that the allergy season is starting, begin taking your allergy meds before symptoms begin. Make sure you have your inhaler or that you are taking your allergy shots if necessary. Also, take them before going out. Use non-drowsy over-the-counter antihistamines such as Zyrtec or Claritan. Costco has the generics for a significantly lower price.
Follow the pollen counts. Pollen.com has the information. If the counts are high that day, plan on exercising indoors.
(Did You Know? Allergies were first described in 1906 by a Viennese pediatrician who coined the term from the Greek words “other” “work”.)
The time of day also matters. Dr. Lighvani states that pollination occurs typically between 5am and 9am. Avoid running outdoors during those hours.
Protection using a mask or scarf is helpful. Clean your clothes after exercising. Use a salt water nasal flush to mechanically cleanse your nose. After all, they are particles that can be removed.
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