Making the Best of Allergy Season
It’s here; covering seemingly everything that doesn’t move. It’s on your car, your patio furniture, your glasses, your pets… And just as soon as you attempt to wash it away, it’s back.
We’re talking about the pollen, of course. For allergy sufferers, spring may be one of the toughest times to run. Or breathe, for that matter. And even those who don’t have seasonal allergies, pollen counts can spike the air quality index to levels that make it downright difficult for anyone working, playing, or running outside.
Regardless of the conditions, a runner’s gonna do what a runner’s gonna do – which is run, of course. So we checked in with our partners at Novant Health for their advice on making the best of allergy season. The good news is, allergy season doesn’t have to be a total sufferfest. With some simple changes in your routine, you can keep your running and training on pace.
It’s also important to remember that your allergies may change over time, says Dr. Keith Anderson, a family medicine and sports medicine practitioner at Novant Health. He’s also a runner, triathlete, and medical director for the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon. What worked last year may not work as well – if at all — this season. When in doubt, ask your doctor to develop an allergy treatment protocol that’s right for you.
Running Through Spring Allery Season
- Know what’s out there. It’s easy to keep track of pollen counts on your phone, with apps from The Weather Channel, My Pollen Count, Allergy Alert, and others.
- Timing is everything. If you can, run later in the morning or in the afternoon when pollen counts are usually lower.
- Wear a hat and sunglasses. The hat’s brim and your sunnies can keep allergens out of your eyes and off your face.
- Keep it indoors. These treadmill workouts to keep it fresh (treadmills: https://runcharlotte.com/treadmill-or-dreadmill/ ) Or use high pollen count days for strength training, yoga, or other indoor workouts.
- Shower and change. After outdoor runs, shower and change as soon as you can. That will get pollen and other allergens off your skin, hair, and clothes.
Check out more on how to Run Through Spring Allergies Like a Pro https://runcharlotte.com/spring-allergies/
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