Roughly 24 million people suffer from seasonal allergies in the US. If you're one of these people, you know exactly how frustrating it is to combat the symptoms effectively.

Between the constant itchy eyes, sneezing, agitated throat, and stuffy nose, allergies can make daily life difficult. And when it's time to go to sleep, it can feel like they become even worse.

If your fall allergies are making it impossible for you to get quality sleep each night, here are seven ways to help combat them. 

1. Use an Air Purifier

If you don't already have an air purifier, it's time to invest in one. 

Air purifiers are easy to set up and help clean the air in the room so that you're breathing in fresh air instead of pollen-filled air. And it doesn't only help with pollen - it filters out things like dust mites, pet dander, and mold too.

Whether you have bad allergies or not, you'll likely notice improved sleep after a few nights of having an air purifier on by your bed.

It's also a good idea to change your air filters in your house during this time, so they're clean and fresh, giving you better quality air to breathe inside. 

2. Close Your Doors and Windows 

This may seem like a no-brainer, but if you leave your windows open at night during the fall season, pollen and other allergens will get into your bedroom and contribute to your symptoms. Plus, some pollens have higher counts at night than during the day, making it even more important to keep them out of the bedroom.

To avoid pollen symptoms, make sure your windows and doors are closed before going to sleep. If they've been open during pollen season, wipe down the area around the window (like the windowsill) to get rid of any pollen that has come inside. 

3. Keep Your Furniture Clean

Not only can pollen collect on your furniture, but so can dust and pet dander, which contribute to allergies as well. 

Make a habit of dusting your bedroom often and wiping down all surfaces with a clean cloth to remove any unwanted particles. Wash your sheets every week and opt for organic versions if possible. 

Additionally, vacuuming your carpet or sweeping the floor will help too. Try to avoid having lots of upholstery in the bedroom (such as heavy curtains or fabric chairs) because these tend to collect a lot of dust. Instead, opt for wood, metal, or plastic versions that are super easy to keep clean. 

4. Change Clothes Outside of the Bedroom

This tip may take some getting used to, but it can make a big difference in terms of allergy prevention. 

Instead of coming into your bedroom after a long day and changing clothes right next to where you sleep, change your clothes in a different room. This will help keep any allergens that you picked up throughout the day out of the bedroom so you can sleep more soundly. 

In fact, leaving your clothes in the laundry room is the best option, as you can put them right in the washing machine without transferring the pollen or other allergens anywhere else in the house. Just make a habit of leaving pajamas or a change of clothes wherever you choose to change outfits. 

Taking a shower before going to sleep is another great way to wash off all of those allergens and get a good night's rest. 

5. Rethink Your Pet's Proximity 

Many people overlook their pets as a potential contributor to their seasonal allergies. After all, how could such a cute little creature affect the home air quality?

However, pets can cause allergy symptoms with their pet dander alone, and if they're bringing in other allergens like pollen after going on a walk or rolling around in the grass, keeping them beside you in bed isn't going to help you fall asleep peacefully.

While it may be difficult, consider having your pet sleep in a different room when your fall allergies are at their worst. If this isn't a good option, at least have them sleep in their own bed in the room instead of in your own, or wipe them down with pet-safe wipes before bed to remove any dirt or allergens. 

6. Take Allergy Medication at Night

Most people take their allergy medication in the morning to help them get through the day without all of the sneezing and itchiness that allergies cause. But to help you get quality sleep, you might try taking your allergy medication at night instead. 

By switching the time of day that you take it, the medication will be at its most helpful as you're going to sleep and less likely to wear off like it does when it's taken in the morning. Plus, you won't have to worry about the possible side effect of drowsiness being a negative!

Taking allergy medicine at night is a good way to improve your sleep quality, so you wake up feeling rested and ready to tackle the day. 

7. Talk to Your Doctor

If you try some of these tips and your fall allergies are still stopping you from being able to sleep, it's time to talk to your doctor. They will be able to identify what's causing your allergies and how you can best treat the symptoms so that sleep comes more easily.

A doctor may also recommend the best over-the-counter medication for your situation or provide ideas for possible lifestyle changes you can make to help ease your allergy symptoms. 

Get Rid of Fall Allergies with These Options

There's nothing worse than fall allergies making it difficult to breathe when you're exhausted and wishing for sleep. Hopefully, with these tips, you'll be on your way to reducing the symptoms of home allergens.

If you're looking for bedding, furniture, or other lifestyle items that will make bedtime more enjoyable, we're here to help. Check out our website to find high-quality and unique options that will have you sleeping soundly in no time.