Presbyterian | Your Story | Spring 2025

Presbyterian Health Plan, Inc. P.O. Box 27489 Albuquerque, NM 87125-7489 www.phs.org Important plan information TC Standard U.S. Postage PAID Presbyterian Health Plan INSIDE Give your brain a boost 6 How to spring clean — safely 10 Your Spring 2025 for Turquoise Care members En español: Si usted desea obtener este boletín en español, llame al (505) 923-5200 o al 1-888-977-2333. Is it an allergy or a cold? An allergy can feel like a common cold. But allergy symptoms usually last longer. They include: Runny or stuffy nose Itchy eyes Coughing Sneezing Feeling tired How do allergies develop? An allergen is something you’re sensitive to, like dust or pet hair. When you breathe it in, your immune system reacts. Then you have symptoms. Try these tips for relief: • Keep your windows closed when the pollen count is high. • Use air conditioning in your home and car. • Stay indoors as much as possible. • Wash your sheets and pillowcases often. • Use a dehumidifier at home. Empty and clean it often. • Wash your hands after petting animals. • Shower and change your clothes after spending time outside. • Wear an N95 mask when working in the yard. When to get help Medicine might help. If not, you may need to see your primary care provider (PCP). They may want you to try immunotherapy. This can work well for severe allergies. First, the provider will do tests to learn what you are allergic to. Then they may give you shots. The shots help you build tolerance to allergens. You could receive shots for three to five years. Your symptoms may get better or go away. Source: American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology

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