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If you have a chronic illness you know that each season brings its own challenges. Everyone around you may think that leaving winter behind means leaving all your worries behind, but that’s not always the case. Here’s what to prepare for as spring draws closer.

Allergies – A lot of people start to sniffle as spring approaches but if you have an overactive immune system this could be worse than your average allergy attack. Allergies are an immune response to things in the environment. These can be to pollen, dust, mold, or even animals. If your doctor has suggested allergy medication to help manage your responses to allergens in the air make sure you have enough on hand before those allergies hit. Be sure to carry them with you, especially an inhaler. At home, change your sheets often and make sure you aren’t re-wearing clothes so that allergens don’t build up on them. 

The Weather is…what? – Spring tends to be warmer. But it’s also cold. And wet. And dry. And cloudy. And sunny. It’s really hard to keep track and know how to dress for Spring. Some illnesses are exacerbated by cold and some by heat making spring a pretty tough gamble. Bring a jacket or sweater with you that you can easily take on and off as the weather changes throughout the day. The same goes for hats or baseball caps. A small portable umbrella that can fit easily in a bag or in your car will also help out if you get caught in a sudden spring shower and make it so you don’t have to suffer in wet clothes all day.

Keep safe from the sun – When the days start getting longer it’s a relief at first to shed those endlessly dark days, but keep in mind the sun brings its own challenges. Doctors advise people with illnesses like Lupus to avoid the sun as it could make their symptoms worse. Bright, direct sunlight can also trigger migraines in many illnesses sufferers. Carry sunglasses with you and don’t be afraid to use them whether you’re walking or driving. Wearing sunscreen on all your exposed skin will also help avoid any burns or rashes. Those hats will also come in handy for keeping the sun off your face and off of a sensitive scalp. Just make sure it’s breathable so you don’t overheat yourself. You might also want to consider using that umbrella or a parasol to make sure you stay in the shade no matter where you end up in your daily routine.

Peer Health can connect you with a personalized peer community to share provider recommendations, treatment options, and define your best life. Sign up for our beta and newsletter today.