Live Well Newsletter | April 2024
Distracted Driving Awareness Month
April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month, making it an appropriate time to reevaluate your driving habits. Use the following tips to decrease driving distractions:
Make any necessary adjustments before you start driving.
Minimize potential navigation distractions by planning your route.
Eliminate the urge to use your phone or other devices by putting them out of sight in a safe compartment.
Pull over to a safe location to make phone calls or send text messages.
Avoid eating while driving.
Secure children and pets before hitting the road.
Resist the urge to reach for items while driving.
How to Manage Spring Allergies
Springtime allergies are an annual nuisance for many people as plants bloom and neighbors cut their lawns more frequently. Also, mold growth occurs indoors and outdoors, making it almost impossible to escape allergy triggers. Consider these strategies to alleviate your spring allergy symptoms, such as sneezing, stuffy or runny nose, and watery eyes:
Monitor local allergen (e.g., pollen and mold) levels to help you know when to avoid spending excessive time outside.
Take a shower after spending time outdoors, as pollen can stick to your hair, skin and clothing.
Wash your bedding weekly in hot water to help keep pollen under control.
Vacuum often.
Change your air conditioner and heating HEPA filters often.
Use an air purifier.
Allergy Treatment
Treatment for most allergies is available both over the counter and by prescription. Your doctor may suggest the following treatment methods:
Antihistamine medications block the effects of histamines, the chemicals that cause many allergy symptoms. Keep in mind that antihistamines may also cause drowsiness.
Nasal sprays often help to reduce nasal inflammation, congestion, sneezing and runny nose.
Decongestants help dry up nasal passages and reduce the swelling that causes stuffiness.
Contact your health care provider to find an allergy treatment option that is best for you.
Stress Awareness Month
April is Stress Awareness Month, a time to recognize the negative impacts of stress. While it may be impossible to eliminate every stressor in your life, there are plenty of ways to reduce their effects on your life.
Consider the following tactics to keep stress at bay:
Plan and prioritize your most important responsibilities.
Limit interruptions to eliminate the need to refocus. One way to do this is by changing the settings on your phone to limit notifications.
Take breaks away from work to mentally regroup.
Consider going for a walk to reenergize your mind and get fresh air.
Listen to relaxing music.
Practice meditation.
Take time off work to clear your mind.
Avoid caffeine.
Learn to say no to avoid overscheduling.
If managing stress remains a challenge, consider discussing treatment options with your doctor. Don’t wait to seek help, or you’ll risk letting the stress pile up.
Spring Home Maintenance
Review the following tips for spring maintenance to prevent costly repairs:
Inspect your roof for leaks or loose shingles.
Clean your gutters.
Examine the seals around windows and doors.
Check for frayed wires, loose outlets or cracked plugs.
Repair cracks in the driveway and sidewalk.
Inspect connecting pipes and hoses for cracks, leaks and dampness.
This newsletter is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical purposes. © 2024 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved.