If you’re among the 30% of American adults who suffer from seasonal allergies, you know how outdoor exercise can cause your symptoms to flare up. The sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes and itchy nose, eyes and throat can be debilitating, but following these simple steps could offer some relief:

• Take allergy medications. Over-the-counter antihistamines may help to minimize the symptoms you experience when exercising.

• Keep an eye on the weather. Is it going to be a dry and windy day? Move your workout indoors. It’s often bets to exercise outside during or after rain or in the early morning, when dew keeps pollen in check.

• Be selective with your workouts. Yoga is kinder to your allergies than long runs or high-intensity cross-training.

• Shower immediately afterward. Wash the pollen off your skin and out of your hair.

• Use a nasal saline spray. This can help flush pollen and other allergens out of your nose.

• Wear an allergy mask. Choose one that has nanofibers, which are designed to filter out pollen and more.

• Avoid being close to lawn mowers, leaf blowers and people raking. These activities kick up allergens.

Need more help? Watson Clinic’s Allergy specialists treat allergies, asthma and a host of additional immune system diseases. To schedule an appointment, call 863-680-7486 (Main), 863-647-4045 (South) or visit WatsonClinic.com/Allergy.

Sources: American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology; American Academy of Otolaryngic Allergy; American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology; American Council on Exercise; Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America