Wellness Center provides tips on allergy season Sneezing, itchy, watery eyes, shortness of breath -- get ready for allergy season! As you prepare for outdoor activities —- such as gardening, cookouts, and lawn chores —- make sure you also prepare for allergies. Did you know seasonal allergies can make asthma symptoms worse? If your asthma seems to get worse during certain times of the year, you may be suffering from seasonal allergies that affect asthma. The time to start managing your allergies is now. What can I do? There are four key steps that help you better manage your allergies: 1. Talk to your doctor to find out if you have seasonal allergies. 2. Stay inside with the windows closed, particularly when pollen and mold counts are highest (often the midday and afternoon). 3. Talk to your doctor about taking a controller medication to prevent asthma symptoms or talk to your doctor to find out if a controller medication is right for you. 4. Most importantly, develop an allergy action plan with your doctor. Where do I go for additional assistance? There is help. MyHealthConnection offers you: • Online access to important information about asthma. • 24/7 access to Health Coaches —- specially trained health professionals such as nurses, dietitians, and respiratory therapists. Convenience, expert support, and a helping hand -— call MyHealthConnection at 1-800-658-2750 to speak to a health coach today. Or get additional information online at www.thedialogcenter.com/bcbsnd. Click on the Healthwise® Knowledgebase to search for Asthma in Adults and Teens. -- Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota, and Amanda Eickhoff, Wellness program assistant, Wellness Center, amandaeickhoff@mail.und.nodak.edu, 777-2719.