Though spring can bring sunshine, warmer temperatures, and blooming flowers to Headland, Alabama, it also ushers in one of the season’s biggest foes: pollen, causing allergy season in Headland. If you suffer from seasonal allergies and sinus issues in Headland, such as sneezing, sinus pressure, coughing, and watery eyes, these tips may help you tackle pollen, enjoy springtime, and find treatment for seasonal allergies in Headland.

Prioritizing a healthy lifestyle is generally the first step in any form of preventative healthcare in rural Alabama, and seasonal allergies and sinus issues are no different. Make sure you’re eating a balanced diet including plenty of fruit and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C like oranges and strawberries are powerful armor for your immune system. Some of the best places to pick up fresh produce are local markets in Headland and Midland City like 3D Farms, Hometown Foods, Midland City Foodliner, Sun Stop Market, and the Headland Farmers Market. Staying hydrated is also a great way to improve your overall health and wellbeing. Men should drink about 15.5 cups of water a day, and women should drink about 11.5 cups of water a day. A reusable water bottle or tumbler can help you achieve your water goals.

Though warmer weather may draw you outside, minimizing your allergen exposure in Headland will also help you battle seasonal allergies and sinus issues. On especially windy or dry days, try to avoid time outdoors. You can always check the Headland weather forecasts to monitor the day’s pollen counts. If you must go outside, try to shower and change your clothes after returning inside to remove pollen from your hair and clothes. Avoid hanging your laundry outside and keep your windows closed if possible. Another strategy is adding a high efficacy particulate air (HEPA) filter to your air conditioning unit. This filter can help remove dust, pollen, mold, and bacteria from the air in your home. Check stores like Smith’s True Value in Headland or Ace Hardware in Headland for HEPA filters.

Adding daily allergy medication, such as Cetirizine (Zyrtec), Loratadine (Claritin), or Fexofenadine (Allegra), to your routine could help combat seasonal allergies and sinus issues. You can also incorporate a nasal spray, such as Fluticasone Propionate (Flonase) for added assistance. All these medicines are available without a prescription at your local pharmacy in Headland, like Mike’s Pharmacy.

If seasonal allergies and sinus problems are affecting your quality of life, it could be time to schedule an appointment with your primary care provider in Headland to discuss options. They may be able to incorporate lifestyle changes, medication, or other tactics to help you get back to feeling like yourself. Contact Headland Family Medicine today at 334.693.3336 to schedule your appointment.