As Spring approaches so will the pollen: Tips on how you can beat it

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- As Spring approaches and Americans prepare to spring their clocks forward, allergies and pollen will also resurface this year.

Last year, according to a 2024 study from The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), Richmond ranked No. 7 nationally for pollen related allergies. The AAFA said the allergy capitals were based off of "pollen scores for tree, grass, and weed pollen, over-the-counter medication use (allergy) and number of allergy specialists."

8News' own StormTracker8 has also released their allergy forecast for the Richmond region:

However, there are some ways you can protect yourself and limit your contact with pollen inside and outside of your home. According to the AAFA you can:

• Check the pollen count daily: On low pollen days plan outdoor activities and on high pollen days stay inside, or if outside wear sunglasses, a hat or a mask
• Remove shos before entering your home
• Change and wash clothes after outdoor activities
• Wipe pets and furry animals off when they come inside or bathe them on a weekly basis
• Shower before bed to keep pollen out of bedding
• Keep windows closed during peak pollen season or peak pollen times
• Clean bedding, floors and fabric furniture once a week
• Clean blinds, curtains and washable rugs once a month
• Us central air conditioners or air cleaners with a HEPA certified asthma and allergy friendly filter if possible