After spending the last week and a half with a wicked case of the flu, I’ve got runny noses, watery eyes, fatigue, and sneezing fits on the brain. Although my illness wasn’t related to allergies, the symptoms sure are similar.
And because allergies are so pervasive, there are bound to be plenty of equestrian professionals who suffer from them. Sure, allergies are a pain no matter where you spend your days, but when you’re constantly exposed to the elements, they tend to flare up just a bit more. So how can equestrian professionals get their allergies under control so they can do their jobs effectively?
1- See Your Doctor
My husband suffers from terrible allergies, and he’s tried every over-the-counter solution available. Allegra. Claritin. Zyrtec. Good ol’ Benadryl. Although most of them provided some relief, he still found himself carting around a package of Kleenex and battling overall misery. He finally went to see the doctor.
Prescription antihistamines have two main advantages: 1) They’re non-drowsy, if that’s what you request; and 2) They’re stronger. Sold!
Your doctor can also help you determine which allergens are your main triggers. A medical professional’s advice is always preferable to winging it on your own.
2- Wash Your Face and Hands
Part of the problem equestrian professionals face is the constant exposure to allergens, which are often transferred to the hands and face throughout the day. If you’ve got pollen on your hands and you rub your eyes, what happens? Instant allergic reaction.
Make a point to visit the washroom at the barn every hour or so to wash up. Not only will this help eliminate any allergens clinging to your skin, but it will also help get rid of bacteria that might make you sick in addition to your allergies.
3- Change Clothes
If your skin is an allergen-attractant, your clothes are even worse. The tiny fibers are like dust-particle catchers, and since your clothes are worn against your skin, they become a serious liability.
Keep a change of clothes at the barn and make sure you change clothes immediately upon arriving home. Then put the dirty clothes in a hamper with a lid and run the washing machine often.
I recommend leaving your boots outside or in a mud room closed off to the rest of the house. Clean them regularly.
4- Irrigate the Arena
If nothing else, stand out there with a hose and spray down the surface at least once a day. You can do the same with any other sandy areas, including the barn aisle way. Water will help congeal the surface and prevent free-floating dust, which will in turn minimize exposure.
Some barns install an irrigation system around their arenas to reduce the labor factor. While this might be expensive, it might also be worth it. Start saving up.
5- Wear a Mask
No, it’s not cool, and yes, you will look like a quarantine reject. But if your allergies are really bad at the barn, a mask might be the only option to get some relief.
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About the Author: Laura Jane Thompson is the Chief Equestrian Officer of Riding Instructor University and the Feature writer for the horses section at Suite101. She believes that any horse business can succeed provided its owner practices smart strategy.
