### Tips to Enjoy Outdoor Activities Despite Allergies 1. **Wear a Mask:** If you're mowing the lawn, wear a simple painter's mask to avoid inhaling allergens. 2. **Check Pollen Counts:** Pollen counts are highest on hot, dry, windy days. Check the forecast before planning outdoor activities. 3. **Avoid Scents:** If you're allergic to insect stings, avoid scented deodorants, perfumes, and hair products. Always carry an epi pen when hiking. 4. **Pollution Alert:** High pollution levels can make allergens more potent. Avoid outdoor exercise on days with high pollution. 5. **Timing Matters:** Move your morning jog to the evening as pollen and mold levels peak between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m. 6. **Soothe Itching:** For poison ivy, oak, or sumac rashes, use wet compresses, calamine lotion, or antihistamine pills. 7. **Wear Sunglasses:** Sunglasses can keep pollen out of your eyes and protect against UV rays. 8. **Check Pollen Counts:** If outdoor activities leave you wheezing, check pollen counts before heading out or consider indoor exercise. 9. **Pet Care:** Keep pets away from areas with poison ivy, oak, or sumac as they can carry the oil home on their fur. 10. **Start Early:** Begin allergy medications a few weeks before pollen season starts. 11. **Plan Your Days:** Warm, breezy mornings have high pollen counts, while cool, rainy days have lower counts. Plan accordingly. 12. **Ragweed Alert:** If you're allergic to spring pollens, you might also be sensitive to ragweed in the fall. 13. **Consult an Allergist:** Don't let allergies control your life. See an allergist for effective treatment. 14. **Weather Watch:** Thunderstorms can stir up mold spores and pollen. Be prepared for an allergy attack. 15. **Avoid Raking:** If you're allergic to mold, avoid raking leaves or wear a mask. Store firewood outside. 16. **Pet Hygiene:** Hose down pets to remove pollen before they come indoors. 17. **Nasal Care:** Use saline spray at the end of the day to clear pollen from your nasal lining. 18. **Dress for Rain:** Enjoy outdoor activities on cool, rainy days when pollen counts are low. 19. **Bundle Up:** Cold air can irritate sensitive airways. Cover your mouth and nose with a scarf when exercising in cold weather. 20. **Protective Gear:** Wear a bandana over your nose and mouth and goggles to protect your lungs and eyes from allergens.