SPRING OUTDOORS: ALLERGY HELP

Philadelphia trees begin to 'bloom'. Taken by PKSenagore Spring 2016. All rights reserved.

SUFFERERS APPROACH TO EXERCISE A short article written by Jennifer Purdie for Under Armor’s MapMyRun Blog, “Spring Allergy Tips For Runners” reminds runners of ways in which they might lessen their suffering during spring, what many refer to as “allergy season”. Purdie’s advice might best be heeded by all who are eager to finally are able to get active outdoors in better weather.
 
The author references family medicine physician Dr. Rachel Carlton Abrams, and Dr. Deborah Gentile, director of research, division of allergy, asthma and immunology at Pediatric Alliance in Pittsburgh”.
 
Another advice piece, “Running With Allergies” by Sarah Johnson for ACTIVE.com discusses general rules, such as the ‘neck rule.’ “If your allergy symptoms are above the neck, such as stuffy or runny nose and sneezing, it's probably OK to run. However, if you are exhibiting any symptoms below the neck, like chest congestion, upset stomach, or body aches, then it's time to call for a rest day.”
 
Runner’s World posted an item in 2012 written by Lisa Jhung, “Nothing to Sneeze At”, which highlighted advice provided by a runner-allergist, Stephen Klemawesch. A 2014 Women’s Running article also features this doctor’s advice; some parts address women’s issues.
 
A more current item was posted on WebMD in January 2018, “6 Ways to Keep Exercising Outside with Allergies”.
 
The advice in these items is organized and summarized below:
 
KNOW YOUR POLLENS!
Learn by testing which specific allergens cause you problems.
 
Before running:

• Check a website that tracks pollen counts across the US or forecasts counts for your allergens, in your area, on running days; there are different readings for different pollens. (the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, for example)
• Chose training routes and races based on expected exposure to specific pollens
• Re-schedule outdoor exercise or stay indoors when pollen counts are highest for the allergens that affect you, or on dry, windy days
• Avoid exercise on warm days of high humidity when the air feels heavy; it may be more difficult to breathe on such days. Humidity also fuels mold growth that can be a trigger for allergy symptoms in some

While running:

• Shield eyes (wrap-around sunglasses, goggles) and nose (bandanas, buffs)
• Expect performance to be affected and ease-up or shorten sessions as needed
• Avoid medications which can adversely affect hydration (dry air passages) or performance (make you drowsy)
• Use nose sprays recommended by an allergist

 
After running, prevent continued exposure to pollen:

• Remove clothing ASAP, before entering living area, if possible, and launder
• Rinse nose with saline
• Shower and wash hair
• Wash hair and change pillow case each night too

 
Seek medical advice for new treatments with less side effects! Start taking medications in advance of the season if possible.
 
The point of running, walking, cycling and fitness work is to get exercise AND enjoy the process. If allergies are messing with your mind and body, take your workout indoors. Run or walk laps on the small gym track or hop on a treadmill, elliptical, or stationary bicycle. Get in a cross-training session by swimming indoors (unless pool chlorine irritates), playing tennis, or strength training.  

It may be best to regularly set aside time for physical activity in the late afternoons or early evenings, to make same-day last minute alterations to workouts less disruptive and inconvenient.
 
Learn to love rainy days. Precipitation clears the air!
 
RUN & MOVE HAPPY!
 
http://blog.mapmyrun.com/spring-allergy-tips-runners
 
http://www.active.com/running/articles/running-with-allergies
 
http://www.runnersworld.com/trail-running-training/allergy-tips-for-runners
 
http://womensrunning.competitor.com/2014/05/health-wellness/pollen-problems_24836#wgl8FX1eLq4VzThp.97

https://www.webmd.com/allergies/allergies-and-exercising-outside

http://www.aaaai.org/global/nab-pollen-counts
https://weather.com/forecast/allergy/
https://www.pollen.com/forecast/current/pollen/
https://www.zyrtec.com/allergy-forecast-tools-apps