Many people think of Spring and Summer as big allergy triggers. But actually, Fall can be quite the culprit as well. Ragweed is rampant in autumn and can cause all sorts of problems for allergy sufferers like coughing, red and itchy eyes, and sneezing. Mold and dust mites can be another Fall allergy trigger, especially since you tend to spend much more time indoors. Here are some ways to prepare for and deal with fall allergies. Stock up on Allergy MedsHaving everything you need for an allergy attack ready and waiting is a good idea. Since we’re going into flu season, and still have the effects of the pandemic to contend with, stocking up on supplies is key. The local pharmacy near me has everything I need to get a Fall allergy kit ready. Over the counter medications like antihistamines, pain killers, nasal sprays and decongestants are all essential to have on hand. Your pharmacy probably carries some alternative health options that could be helpful as well. Look for vapor rubs and essential oils like eucalyptus or peppermint that can alleviate respiratory allergy symptoms. On the other hand, if your allergies require prescriptions, then make sure you get your prescription refills. Give Your House a Deep CleanSince dust and allergens tend to accumulate in the fibers of your carpets, curtains, and linens, the Fall is a great time to deep clean your home. You could rent a carpet cleaning machine or hire a cleaning service to deep clean your carpets. For curtains and linens, I find that the local dry cleaner near me is the perfect spot for help. When I mentioned that I have allergies, they said they have hypoallergenic products they could use to treat my laundry items. And don’t forget the bedding! Most dry cleaners clean comforters, bedspreads and other household items. Just be sure to call ahead to check their policies. Clean or Replace Your VacuumThis is something that people don’t often think of. But your vacuum can be quite the collector of dust and allergens. If you own a vacuum with a replaceable or cleanable filter, the Fall is the perfect time to do that. Read the manufacturer instructions (you can find most online) for how to replace or clean your vacuum filter and also clean out the bottom brush head. This will not only get rid of stored dust and dirt, but it will ensure your vacuum is working at its maximum power to suck up all those allergens.
Now that you’ve done everything you can to prepare for allergies, enjoy the Fall! We made it to Labor Day, guys! Now, more than ever, it’s important to celebrate whenever we can, even if it’s a little differently than we’re used to. If you’re planning a Labor Day BBQ for your family, or a social distanced version with your neighbors, here are some tips to get you ready. Prep That Grill!Your grill is always the MVP of any BBQ, and this one is no exception. Make sure you have everything ready to grill up all your favorites. The first step is to make sure you have a full tank of propane, or a bag of fresh charcoal depending on your type of grill. Then make sure you have clean grill-ready utensils like tongs and spatulas. Plan Your MenuWhen planning your Labor Day BBQ menu, keep in mind that grocery stores still have limited supplies of certain ingredients, or that some may be hard to find. The regulars like ground beef for burgers and hot dogs should be readily available. But if you’re planning on something a little special like grilled salmon or kabobs, it’s best to have a Plan B, just in case. Prep Those BBQ LinensNow is the perfect time to pull out those red and white checked picnic linens! Your local dry cleaners is the perfect place to get them cleaned quickly. If there’s any stains leftover from last year, be sure to let the dry cleaners know, so they can properly treat them. Stock Up on Essential MedsBarbecue foods can mean heartburn for some of us. That’s why our favorite underrated tip is to stock up on antacid and stomach meds. The friendly community pharmacy near me has all the essentials that I need to enjoy our evening safely and comfortably. Yours probably does too. Enlist HelpIf you happen to be caring for an aging parent or family member, now is a great time to think about enlisting the help of a home care agency. Holidays sometimes remind us of all the extra things we’ve taken on over the pandemic, and it’s okay to take a break and get some help.
Once you’ve got everything ready, the fun can begin. Let’s enjoy the time we have with our friends and family and have a great Labor Day! COVID-19 has changed the world, and changed the way we do just about everything. Local businesses are being hit hard, and now more than ever, we need to come together and support them. Here's how. Support Your Local Dry CleanersThe dry cleaners near me are taking quite a beating right now, since the majority of the office work force is now operating remotely. You may not have suits or fancy work clothes to clean, but what else do you have lying around the house that could use refreshing? Comforters, linens and specialty fabrics maintain their shape and longevity the best when cleaned once a year. Call your local dry cleaners ahead of time to check on their current hours and policies. Support Your Local PharmacyYou may think that pharmacies are doing fine during the pandemic, but that may not be the case. Smaller, independent pharmacies are being hit just as hard as everyone else. Your local pharmacy isn't just for prescriptions, they also carry most of the supplies you need for common illnesses and cuts and scrapes. And don't forget that you can get most vaccinations and flu shots at your local pharmacy as well. Support Your Local RestaurantsRestaurants are really struggling right now, especially the ones that usually feature fine dining. If you've been living off of cheap take out and more inexpensive fare, consider treating yourself once a week. Call your favorite fancy restaurant ahead of time and check to see if they're offering take out specials. Most are, and you'll be able to enjoy a gourmet meal in the safety of your own home. Support Your Local Salonsost salons are now open, although they have lots of new rules in place. If you've been putting off that haircut or beauty treatment, now may be the time to try. Call ahead of time to check on hours and protocols in place. Grab your mask and hand sanitizer and be sure to tip well. Most workers in the service industry are just getting back to steady income and could really use some extra support.
This is a hard time for all of us. So let's all support each other and do what we can to make sure our favorite neighborhood spots can survive this pandemic. So many Americans are affected by skin allergies, so much so that skin allergy remedies are a lucrative industry. Different factors can make skin allergies worse like weather, pollen and common airborne allergens. Here are some tips for those dealing with skin allergies Check With Your Local PharmacySkin allergies are sometimes tricky to treat since they vary so much from person to person. Check with a compounding pharmacy about medications specifically for your individual needs. Compounded medications for skin will be specially formulated for you by type and dosage, so you'll get the quickest most reliable results. Be Aware of What Fabrics Irritate Your SkinYou may be unaware that some of the clothing you wear regularly is irritating your sensitive skin. It could be the fabric itself, or the detergent you've been using to wash them. Always look for "free and clear" detergents that don't contain any dyes or perfumes. Additionally, look for a local green dry cleaner nearby that tailors to those with sensitive skin. Ask for no fragrances and hypoallergenic products. Check With Your DoctorSometimes skin allergies could be pointing to a more serious health problem. If your skin suddenly becomes dry or irritated, its best to have it checked out by your doctor or dermatologist. Raised rashes, odd-shaped markings or irritation paired with fevers should always be checked by a medical professional right away. Moisturize FrequentlyDry weather or heat can bring on skin allergies, especially if you're already prone to dry skin. To avoid this, I always keep my skin moisturized with a natural, perfume-free lotion or oil. I like to buy lotions and creams specifically formulated for sensitive skin at a local drugstore near me, which also can fill prescriptions from my dermatologist. Older people also tend to have dry skin, so family caregivers or professional home health aides should also take care to keep their loved one or client's skin moisturized.
Skin allergies are a pain, but they don't have to be. Take care of your skin and take care of each other. |
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