The Hay Fever Handbook Hay fever sufferers don’t have to be
shut-ins – one must simply learn when it is best to go out. •
Stay inside when pollen levels are at their highest, generally
between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m., when the morning dew is drying. •
Check local pollen forecasts before heading out, and ask a
doctor for advice on when to take medications. • Cool and damp
conditions are good times to venture out – there will be less
pollen in the air. If it is warming up after a rain, change
plans. The pollen will become airborne as the water evaporates.
• Get someone else to mow the lawn if you are grass- or mold-
allergic (the mower stirs up mold in the grass) and keep the
lawn to two inches or less to prevent flowering. Don’t go
outside if you hear the neighbor mowing during grass pollen
season (May to July). • Wear a face mask, hat, glasses, gloves
and a long-sleeved shirt when working outside. This will keep
pollen exposure to a minimum. • Help yourself by making your
garden as allergen-free as possible (and en