Testing is the first step to managing your seasonal allergy symptoms. Once you know what’s causing your symptoms, you can work with your healthcare provider to determine the best way to avoid your triggers. Managing your symptoms may involve a combination of lifestyle changes, medications, and/or immunotherapy.

Once you identify your triggers, you can minimize exposure to them by adopting a few simple practices. Here are some examples:

Take allergy medicines 30 minutes before going outdoors.

Stay indoors as much as possible when pollen counts are at their peak, usually during the mid-morning and early evening (this may vary according to plant pollen), and when it’s windy outside.

Remove work clothes outdoors after working outside and carry them in a bag to the washing machine. Wear a microfiber facemask when working outside.

Shower after being or working outside — wash hair, eyes, and eyelashes.

Keep windows closed and use air conditioning in your car and home. Make sure to keep your air conditioning unit clean.

Use high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters for furnace and vacuum cleaners.