Who doesn’t love a weekend in the Smokies? But to really enjoy the Smokies, you need to be outdoors—and that’s also where many allergens live. That’s why our team at AFC Urgent Care Sevierville wants to offer some suggestions on keeping allergies at bay so you can get out and have fun! Sneeze No More! Approximately 40 to 60 million Americans suffering from allergies each year. Did you know that your allergies can actually develop and evolve over time? In fact, pollen may not even have been an issue when you were younger and now even a sprinkle of some pollen in your car can make you feel as those your nose will never stop running and your sneezing will never end. Therefore, it’s always good to stay up-do-date on ways to find relief from seasonal allergies, especially since you just never know when they might strike. First, as much as it might be tempting to open the windows on a nice, spring day, it’s important to keep them closed when the pollen count is high. By closing doors and windows, you are helping to keep the pollen from flowing in and causing your allergies to flare up. Instead, it’s just best to use your air conditioner. Second, you might not realize it, but when you come home from a run around the neighborhood or even errands around town, you are possibly bringing in the pollen with you. From your hair to your clothes, the pollen particles can be taking over your personal space without you even knowing it. To help alleviate the continual itching and scratching it might bring, it’s best to come home, shower and change your clothes to help ensure you are not continuing to breathe in the pollen you brought home with you. Finally, while it is important to get outside and enjoy the vitamin D, it’s also important to be mindful of the times you head outdoors to help ensure you are not setting yourself up for a full-blown allergy attack. For example, since pollen counts tend to be higher between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m., it’s best for allergy sufferers to wait until after this time to head outdoors to help prevent allergic reactions and enjoy the day sneeze-free! Control Your Allergies to Enjoy Pigeon Forge! Don’t let your allergies stand in the way of having some fun this month! March is packed with plenty of fun in Pigeon Forge. On March 3, the Chuckwagon Cookoff Competition kicks off. Whether you plan to participate in the cookoff or just attend, it is sure to be a barrel of fun for people of all ages! From March 20 to 24, you can enjoy the festivities surrounding the A Mountain Quiltfest. And believe us, these are quilts you won’t want to miss out on seeing for yourselves! Finally, don’t forget: It’s also time to gear up for Ponies in the Smokies, beginning March 21. So mark your calendars, as you are sure going to want to get your own car ready to enjoy the show! Are you tired of your seasonal allergies keeping you away from all the fun to be had in and around Pigeon Forge? Visit our team at AFC Urgent Care Sevierville today to let us help you find allergy relief and get you back to feeling your best.