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Nothing to Sneeze At: Healthy-Home Tips for Reducing Nasal Allergy Triggers
Nothing to Sneeze At: Healthy-Home Tips for Reducing Nasal Allergy Triggers
Seasonal allergies can make being outdoors in the spring and summer less fun for many people across the United States, and indoor allergy triggers can be a problem, too. But don't worry! With the help of some simple tips and small changes at home, you can effectively avoid or reduce your exposure to the things that trigger your allergy symptoms.
This guide will show you easy ways to develop good habits to limit your contact with indoor and outdoor allergy triggers. By following these tips, you can enjoy the seasons more comfortably.
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Nothing to Sneeze At: Healthy-Home Tips for Reducing Nasal Allergy Triggers
Nothing to Sneeze At: Healthy-Home Tips for Reducing Nasal Allergy Triggers
Nothing to Sneeze At: Healthy-Home Tips for Reducing Nasal Allergy Triggers
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Seasonal allergies can make being outdoors in the spring and summer less fun for many people across the United States, and indoor allergy triggers can be a problem, too. But don't worry! With the help of some simple tips and small changes at home, you can effectively avoid or reduce your exposure to the things that trigger your allergy symptoms.
This guide will show you easy ways to develop good habits to limit your contact with indoor and outdoor allergy triggers. By following these tips, you can enjoy the seasons more comfortably.
Managing Indoor and Outdoor Allergy Triggers
Avoiding indoor and outdoor allergy triggers is important for managing allergy symptoms. Here are some strategies that can help:
Reducing Outdoor Allergy Triggers
- Stay Informed: Check online pollen data tools for the latest pollen counts and forecasts. Plan outdoor activities on low pollen days.
- Protect Your Eyes & Mouth: On high pollen days, wear a mask and sunglasses when going outside to limit exposure.
- Protect Your Hair & Skin: Wear a hat when spending extended time outdoors to protect your hair, and shower before bed to wash off pollen.
- Laundry Tips: Avoid hanging up clothes outside to dry; instead, use your indoor clothes dryer to prevent pollen from sticking to it.
Reducing Indoor Allergy Triggers and Improving AirQuality
- Limit Pollen Indoors: Close windows during peak pollen times and remove shoes before entering your home to prevent tracking pollen inside. Change and wash your clothes after outdoor activities.
- Pet Care: Wipe down or bathe pets after they have been outside to remove pollen from their fur.
- Home Cleaning: Clean blinds, curtains, rugs, and bedding regularly. Vacuum carpets and furniture weekly using a HEPA*-certified filter.
- Dust Mite Control: Use allergen-proof covers on mattresses and pillows. Wash bedding weekly in hot water. Replace carpets with hard floors where possible.
- Pet Dander Reduction: Bathe pets regularly, use HEPA*-certified air purifiers, and consider keeping pets out of the bedroom if you have pet allergies.
- Mold Prevention: Fix plumbing leaks, use dehumidifiers to keep your home between 30 to 50% humidity, limit indoor plants, and promptly clean visible mold with proper protective gear.
- Air Purification: Invest in high-quality air purifiers with HEPA*-certified filters to remove dust, pollen, animal dander, and mold from your home.
- Look for asthma & allergy friendly® certified products at aafa.org/certified.
*HEPA stands for High Efficiency Particulate Air filter. These special air filters can remove at least 99.97% of tiny particles from the air, including dust, pollen, mold, and bacteria. HEPA filters are used in air purifiers, vacuum cleaners, and some heating and cooling systems to help clean the air in your home.
For a more interactive look at managing indoor and outdoor allergy triggers, be sure to check out AAFA's Healthier Home Checklist.
Even with limiting indoor and outdoor allergy triggers, you still may be experiencing allergy symptoms. A healthcare professional can help you find the best way to treat your allergies and feel better. They might also suggest allergy tests to uncover what's causing your symptoms.
Talk with a healthcare professional if:
- Your allergy symptoms don't get better or get worse.
- You have trouble breathing, start wheezing, or cough a lot.
- Over-the-counter (OTC) allergy medicines don't help or cause bad side effects.
- You think you might have allergies but aren't sure.
Important Update: Acetaminophen
There’s been a lot of talk recently about misleading claims that taking acetaminophen during pregnancy can cause autism. We’ve pulled together some FAQs and answers to help families.
Learn more and get the facts about acetaminophenA NOTE ABOUT DYE-FREE PRODUCTS: Dye-free medications and supplements are a great option for individuals who prefer or require products without dyes, such as those with allergies, sensitivities, or personal preferences. Importantly, both dye-containing and dye-free options are held to the same rigorous safety and quality standards. If you’re unsure which is right for you or your family, talk to your pharmacist or healthcare provider. They can help you choose the option that best suits your needs.
References:
- http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/09/30/AR2005093001998.html
- http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/drug-information/DR602285/DSECTION=precautions-
- http://www.drugs.com/drug-interactions/multivitamin.html
- http://www.naturemade.com/resource-center/articles-and-videos/immune-health/timing-your-vitamins
- http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/912.html
- http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminA-HealthProfessional/
- http://www.prevention.com/food/healthy-eating-tips/your-breakfast-giving-you-cancer
- http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Iron-HealthProfessional/
- http://www.ag.ndsu.edu/pubs/yf/foods/fn1607.pdf
- http://www.fda.gov/Food/DietarySupplements/UsingDietarySupplements/ucm110567.htm
Safe Use Tips & Takeaways
Heart Health Takeaways
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is fluoride?
Fluoride is a natural mineral found in water, soil, and some foods. It strengthens your enamel, repairs early signs of damage, and makes teeth more resistant to acids from bacteria and sugar.
Is fluoride toothpaste still the most effective option, or are fluoride-free formulas just as good?
Fluoride is still the gold standard for cavity protection. Fluoride-free options can clean your teeth, but they don’t offer the same enamel-strengthening power.
Is fluoride safe for daily use?
Yes. When used as directed, fluoride is safe and effective. It’s been trusted and recommended by major health organizations for over 70 years.
How does fluoride actually protect teeth?
It strengthens enamel, repairs early signs of decay, and makes teeth more resistant to acids from bacteria and sugary foods.
Are there any risks to using fluoride long-term?
The main risk—especially for young kids—is swallowing too much, which can lead to mild fluorosis. Using the right amount prevents this. For parents, supervise brushing to ensure kids spit out the toothpaste and don't swallow it.
At what age should kids start using fluoride toothpaste?
As soon as the first tooth appears!
* Under 3 years: a tiny rice-sized smear
* Ages 3–6: a pea-size amount
Supervise brushing so they don’t swallow it.
* Under 3 years: a tiny rice-sized smear
* Ages 3–6: a pea-size amount
Supervise brushing so they don’t swallow it.
Is fluoride still safe and recommended for kids with all the claims online?
Yes. A lot of online claims can be confusing, but decades of research show fluoride is safe and strongly recommended for cavity prevention when used properly.
How much fluoride should my child get from toothpaste?
Use age-appropriate amounts and brush twice a day. If your water isn’t fluoridated, ask your dentist about additional options.
How do I know which kids’ toothpaste claims are real and not just marketing?
Check for the ADA Seal of Acceptance and choose brands your dentist recommends.
Do fluoride-free or “natural” toothpastes protect kids from cavities?
They can help clean teeth, but they don’t provide the same cavity protection as fluoride toothpastes.
Are fluoride-free toothpastes just as effective for adults?
Not for cavity prevention. Fluoride-free toothpastes can help with cleaning and freshening breath, but they do not protect against cavities the way fluoride does. For adults, or anyone who is prone to cavities, fluoride toothpaste remains the most effective option for preventing tooth decay.
Do fluoride alternatives like nano-hydroxyapatite (nHAp) make a difference?
Yes—nHAp can help with sensitivity and early enamel repair. But it hasn’t matched fluoride’s cavity-prevention strength in studies.
How do I compare fluoride vs. fluoride-free options if I have sensitivity or enamel wear?
Fluoride is best for strengthening enamel. nHAp may help with sensitivity. Some people benefit from using both in a balanced routine.
Are whitening toothpastes safe to use with fluoride or fluoride-free products?
Most are safe but can be abrasive. Choose gentle formulas and avoid using them every single day—especially for kids.
What should I look for when choosing an OTC toothpaste?
Pick products with proven active ingredients (like fluoride), check for the ADA Seal, and avoid unnecessary additives or sweeteners.
Does fluoride affect hormones or the brain?
No credible scientific evidence shows fluoride at levels used in toothpaste or fluoridated water disrupts hormones or causes neurodevelopmental harm.
What should I do if my community stops adding fluoride to the water?
Use fluoridated toothpaste, consider fluoride rinses, and talk to a dentist about fluoride supplements for kids.
Do fluoride supplements have side effects?
They’re safe when used under dental guidance and typically recommended for children in areas without fluoridated water.
What’s the best way to make sure I’m getting enough fluoride?
Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, drink fluoridated tap water if available, and ask your dentist for personalized advice if you’re cavity-prone.