Mask Selection Guide

• N95/FFP2 masks: Filter at least 94-95% of airborne particles including pollen. Best choice for high pollen days.
• Surgical masks: Provide some barrier but are less effective against fine pollen. Better than nothing.
• Cloth masks: Minimal pollen filtration. Not recommended for allergy protection.
• Ensure a tight seal around the nose and mouth. Gaps reduce effectiveness by more than 50%.

Indoor Environment Management

• Ventilation: Open windows briefly in the afternoon (2-4 PM) when pollen counts are lower. Avoid morning ventilation.
• Air purifier: Use a HEPA-filter model. Place it in your bedroom and run it while sleeping. Replace the filter every 6 months.
• Laundry: Dry clothes indoors during pollen season. Outdoor drying collects pollen on fabric.
• Bedding: Wash weekly at 60°C or higher. Consider anti-allergen mattress and pillow covers.
• Humidity: Maintain 40-60%. Too dry irritates mucous membranes; too humid encourages mold growth.

After Coming Home Routine

• Remove outerwear at the door to prevent pollen from spreading indoors.
• Wash hands and face thoroughly, especially around the eyes.
• Rinse nasal passages with saline solution — studies show this can reduce symptoms by up to 50%.
• Shower and wash hair (hair traps the most pollen).
• Launder outdoor clothes or store them separately from indoor clothing.

Medication Options

• Antihistamines: Cetirizine (Zyrtec), Loratadine (Claritin), Fexofenadine (Allegra). Most effective when taken before symptoms start.
• Nasal corticosteroid sprays: Fluticasone (Flonase), Mometasone (Nasonex). Most effective for congestion. Takes 2-3 days to reach full effect.
• Eye drops: Olopatadine (Patanol), Ketotifen (Zaditor). Effective for itchy, red eyes.
• Starting medication 2 weeks before the pollen season begins is significantly more effective than reactive use. Consult your doctor for a personalized plan.

Immunotherapy (Long-term Treatment)

• Allergen immunotherapy gradually desensitizes your immune system over 3-5 years.
• Available as subcutaneous injections (allergy shots) or sublingual tablets/drops (under the tongue).
• Success rate of approximately 70-80%. It is the only treatment that addresses the root cause of allergies.