Allergies
Tips for those with allergies
The Lowcountry and particularly Charleston are known for high pollen counts. Unlike some places, Charleston sees pollen year-round. Typically, the heavier and more noticeable pollen is produced around March or April and lasts until June. Rain in combination with warm weather feeds the increase of pollination. This combined with our beautifully landscaped campus full of trees, bushes, flowers, and other pollen producing plants can create havoc for those typically sensitive as well as those who may have never suffered from allergies in the past.
If you experience sensitivity, as with all health concerns, please seek the assistance of our Student Health Services or your physician. Below are also some suggestions to help cope during the high pollen seasons in this area.
- If medication has been prescribed to reduce your sensitivity, follow the instructions of your doctor or medical personnel.
- Track the pollen count at pollen.com and, on the days when the count is high, try to stay indoors as much as possible.
- Keep windows and exterior doors closed to reduce the number of allergens entering your apartment or residence hall room.
- Vacuum/sweep and dust regularly to reduce the number of allergens that may have hitchhiked into your space. If you find you are extremely sensitive, you may want to invest in a HEPA filter vacuum cleaner or HEPA filter air purifier to capture as many allergens as possible.
- Avoid tossing your book bag or the clothes worn outside on your bed to prevent spreading allergens to your sleeping area.
- Consider showering and washing your hair before going to bed to also avoid introducing allergens to your bed linens.