SPRING Running with allergies

Spring bedazzled courtyard in Georgetown University, Washington DC. Taken by PKSenagore April 21, 2016. All rights reserved.

ALLERGY SUFFERERS APPROACH TO SPRING RUNNING
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”.
 
The author references  “Dr. Rachel Carlton Abrams, board certified in family medicine and integrative medicine and the author of “Bodywise: Discovering Your Body’s Intelligence for Lifelong Health and Healing,” 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.
 
All contain similar advice, which includes:
 
Learn by testing which specific allergens cause you problems so you can:

• check pollen count forecasts in your area on running days
• chose training routes and races based on expected exposure to specific pollens
• re-schedule morning or windy day runs, when pollen counts are highest

 
While running:

• Shield eyes (wrap-around sunglasses, goggles) and nose (bandanas, buffs)
• Expect performance to be effected and ease-up or shorten the session as needed
• Avoid medications which can adversely affect hydration (dry air passages) or performance (make you drowsy)

 
After running, prevent continued exposure to pollen:

• Remove clothing ASAP, before entering living area, if possible, and launder
• Shower and wash hair
• (wash hair and change pillow case each night too)

 
Seek medical advice for new treatments with less side effects!
 
The point of running is to get exercise AND enjoy the process. If allergies are messing with your mind and body, take your workout indoors. Run laps on the small gym track or hop on a treadmill. Get in a cross-training session by swimming or cycling indoors, 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.
 
RUN 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
 
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