Breathing Easy: How to Help Seniors Survive Allergy Season

BREATHING EASY: HOW TO HELP SENIORS SURVIVE ALLERGY SEASON A growing number of seniors are developing allergies for the first time in older age. For seniors, allergies can complicate other chronic medical conditions, including asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). The most common medication for allergy relief contains antihistamines, which are potentially dangerous if taken with blood pressure medication. The following are some ways to stay safe and comfortable during allergy season. WATCH FOR TRADITIONAL SIGNS OF ALLERGIES. Sniffling Sneezing Runny nose Itchy eyes GET TESTED See an allergy specialist Be prepared with a list of other potential causes in the home Bring all medications with you DOCUMENT ALLERGIES Keep a list of known allergens Keep a list of medications MONITOR LOCAL POLLEN COUNTS Check out pollen.com. Trees Grass Weeds Avoid outdoor activity on high pollen days. Extremely High High Moderate Pollen counts are usually highest in the morning WASH AWAY POLLEN Shower after being outdoors Change into fresh clothes Clean bed sheets often CLOSE WINDOWS Keep windows shut while sleeping Use an air conditioner Use a dehumidifier USE A DRYER Line-drying exposes clothes to pollen Use a standard clothes dryer An Infographic by, Concordia www.concordialm.org Lutheran Mlinistrics Source: http://blog.ecaring.com/breathing-easy-how-caregivers-can-help-seniors-survive-allergy-season/