10 Worst Cities for Spring Allergies in 2013

Is your community on the list?

by: Jess Ludwig, from: AARP, Updated April 18, 2013

Here's how to minimize your exposure when pollen counts are high.

Drive with your car windows closed.
When at home, keep windows and outside doors shut. If you have air conditioning, use it. Both central and room air conditioning units have filters that effectively reduce your exposure.
After you've been outdoors, wash your hands to reduce the amount of pollen you transfer from your hands to your eyes or nose.
Keep pets that spend time outdoors out of the bedroom.
Stay inside during the peak pollen hours of 5 to 10 a.m.
After you’ve been outdoors, consider changing clothes or taking a shower to remove pollen.
Dry laundry in a dryer; avoid hanging clothes outside to dry.
Exercise indoors or enjoy outdoor activities after a sustained rain, when pollen counts are low.
When outside, wear glasses or sunglasses to reduce the amount of pollen that gets in your eyes.
Some allergy medications may work best if taken throughout the pollen season and before allergen exposure rather than intermittently. Consult your physician to learn what might work best for you.