Allergy Wellness
Name at least one way to make your living space more allergy friendly
Dust and vacuum often
Wash clothes and bedding regularly, pollen can stick to fabrics
Use air purifiers. They help remove allergens from the air, making it easier to breathe
Name at least one food that can help keep you hydrated.
Watermelon, strawberries, mangos, cucumber and other fresh fruits or vegetables
True or False: Sun safety primarily has to do with avoiding sunburn
False, it’s about preserving quality of life and long-term health.
Other concerns include eye damage and skin cancer
This occurs when your body doesn't replace fluids lost by sweating and can lead to heat-related illnesses, including heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Dehydration
If you love spending time outdoors, what is at least one way you can make it safer during allergy season?
Wear sunglasses to shield your eyes from pollen.
Use a hat or scarf to keep pollen out of your hair.
Shower and change clothes when you come inside to remove pollen from your skin and hair.
True or False: As we age, it becomes harder for the body to hold onto water, making it easier to become dehydrated
True
What times of the day are safer and more comfortable times for walks, gardening, or other outdoor hobbies?
Early mornings and later afternoons
(10 am to 4 pm are when UV rays are strongest)
Name at least one thing you can do if you're experiencing symptoms of dehydration, heat cramps or heat exhaustion
- Stop exercising right away.
- Sip water or suck on ice cubes.
- Move to the shade or indoors as soon as possible.
- Douse yourself with cold water.
- Apply cold, wet cloths to the neck, groin and armpits.
- Seek medical attention if your condition doesn’t improve or gets worse.
What time of day are pollen counts typically highest?
Pollen counts are usually higher in the morning and early evening. Try to plan outdoor activities midday or later!
True or False: The best way to stay hydrated is to drink water whenever you feel thirsty.
False.
By the time you feel thirsty, you are already experiencing a mild form of dehydration
What can we check to determine the daily expected risk of UV radiation
(1-2 is low, while 11+ is extreme)
True or False: One symptom of heat exhaustion is cool, moist skin
True
As well as Headache, Dizziness or lightheadedness, Weakness, Dark urine, Nausea and vomiting
True or False: Seasonal allergy medications are available OTC and always a safe option for managing allergies
False.
A common side effect of antihistamines is increased blood pressure which can be dangerous for those who have cardiac disease or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Name one reason why we might feel less thirsty as we age
- Kidney function can decline with age
- Health conditions disrupt the body’s fluid balance
- Medications can increase fluid loss
- As we age our skin becomes thinner
- The body’s natural ability to repair cellular damage can decrease
- Certain medications, like diuretics, antibiotics, and anti-inflammatories can also increase photosensitivity
True or False: Muscle cramps and pains, especially in the legs or abdomen, are normal as we become more physically active in the heat
False
Heat cramps can be the first stage of dehydration or a heat illness. It is recommended to stop physical activity and hydrate if you experiencing cramping