Summer Allergy Season Survival Kit

Most summers I seem to get through May & June just fine. Until last week when my eyes were red (or as A.J. described them – pink) and itchy for three days. I skipped the mascara and eye makeup to limit my discomfort. There’s nothing worse than smeared eye makeup because you were rubbing your irritated eyes. I made a quick run to my closest Family Dollar store to stock up on everything I’d need for a summer allergy season survival kit.

 

OTC medication – Since my allergies are not severe, an over the counter medication is usually strong enough to knock out my symptoms. If you suffer for more than a few days, have a hard time sleeping or find yourself stuck indoors because of seasonal allergies, ask your doctor for a prescription.

Eye Drops  – I used saline eye drops quite a bit this week to get some relief with the itchiness and to improve the redness. Even though I felt well, everywhere I went people asked “Are you OK?” or “Are you sick?” I looked like I’d pulled an all-nighter.

Nasal Spray – Whenever A.J. has a runny nose, we find that using saline nasal spray helps get all the gunk out. Relief comes in a matter of minutes, then you blow your nose like crazy until it’s all gone for good!

Tissues –  Runny noses and watery eyes need the attention of tissues. I keep a small pack on my purse at all times for A.J.’s sneezes and mine!

Antibacterial Soap – With an active 7-year-old at home we go through a lot of hand soap because I ask him to wash his hands as soon as we get home from school, karate class, shopping, or a playdate. To make sure we didn’t run out, I bought a brand new bottle for my bathroom.

Disinfectant Wipes – I keep disinfectant wipes under the kitchen and bathroom sinks, and I like to keep them in my purse as well. For allergies, I find that it helps to wipe down the outside doorknob of our home, the steering wheel in my car, and window sills. Anywhere pollen or a wayward allergen could land, I’d like to wipe it away and say “so long”!

Humidifier – My husband and A.J. have used a humidifier more than me for their breathing issues. We have a Crane Drop Humidifier for A.J.’s room that’s easy to fill, filter-free, and quiet!

Bottled Water – Between the pool and play dates we are spending a lot of time outside this summer, so I like to stay hydrated. When I feel an allergy attack coming out, water helps because it can flush out irritants from your system. I keep a pack of bottled water in my trunk so I can grab it when we are on the go. Also, it’s a lot cheaper than spending $2 or $3 for one bottled water at a gas station or convenience store. I purchase a 12 or 24 pack from Family Dollar to last me a month or so.

RELATED TOPIC: What I Keep in My Asthma Attack Arsenal 

 

Talkback to me in the comments: Did I miss anything? What can you buy at Family Dollar to add to your allergy season survival kit?

Allergy Headache

This time around my head stayed clear and my eyes took the brunt of my allergic reaction. But just in case you suffer from allergy headaches, here’s how to relieve allergy sinus headache pain fast.