Allergies manifest themselves in many different forms. While most allergies are just a bit bothersome, some can actually have devastating side effects, like serious illness and death. People can be allergic to a number of things such as medications, animals, pollen, foods, and so on. Understanding what causes them can be the key to finally conquering them.
People are more likely to develop certain allergies at a specific age. One example of this principle is that babies are more likely to have food allergies because they have only recently been exposed to food proteins. As they grow older and are introduced to other types of foods they are not used to, they may develop allergies to some of those new foods. If your child suffers from any sort of allergy, get them to the doctor for an allergy test to learn exactly what they are allergic to.
If you desire to have a pet, despite having allergies, get a pet that has short fur. All pets tend to upset allergies, but those that have long hair are worse to deal with. In order to cut down on the negative effect that your pet might have on you, do not let them sleep in your bed.
Just to be safe, you want to test any new over the counter antihistamines at home. Many antihistamines can cause people to feel drowsy and inhibit their different reflexes. Even if the packaging does not contain a warning, when you take the first couple of doses, do it during a time that you are able to stay home and see how it makes you feel.
Exercise either in the early morning or late evening to avoid high pollen counts. It has been shown through numerous studies that pollen levels rise during mid day, but are lowest during the morning and early evening.
Keep searching for a good allergy treatment, even if nothing has worked yet. There are other allergy medications available, other than oral medications. Over-the-counter products are available as eye drops or nasal sprays; prescription treatment options include leukotriene blockers and powerful steroid nasal sprays.
Though it may be unpleasant to do, keeping windows closed can prevent many allergens from entering the home. When windows are opened up, pollen is allowed to get inside the house and can exacerbate allergies. Another way to decrease allergens in the home is to regularly check and clean air conditioning vents and filters.
Make sure to keep allergy remedies with you at all times. You never know the kinds of new allergens that can present themselves or exacerbate your current symptoms. Depending on what you’re allergic to, the types of medications you bring may differ. Some Benadryl is okay for minor reactions, but having an Epi-pen may be required for more severe allergies. When you have a sudden, severe attack, the epinephrine inside of the pen will certainly save your life.
Remain cognizant of the amount of stress in your life. Most people aren’t aware that stress affects allergies. For people who have asthma, this is especially true. Asthma attacks are more likely in those experiencing increased stress levels. Learning to deal with stress in a healthy manner, can lower the likelihood that an individual will suffer from a severe asthma attack.
If you have allergies that always manifest themselves in a certain way, then it may be better to address the symptoms while you are working on dealing with the source of the problem. For instance, if a runny nose is the main symptom of your allergies, then you should always have some tissues with you. The same advice can be said for those who have an itchy throat.
If you suffer from allergies, then try to limit what causes you the most trouble. If dust is an issue, be sure to clean frequently and remove as much dust as possible. If you are allergic to your pets, you might have to consider re-homing them if your allergies are really bad. If you can’t bear to part with them, then make sure that they are keep well groomed. Dust and vacuum regularly too in order to control pet dander.
Switch to pillows made from synthetic materials instead of feathers. Dust mites are far less likely to adhere to synthetic fibers. While washing is still required if you want to avoid allergen build up, they are preferable to sleep with.
Make sure you pick out an antiperspirant carefully. Especially when dealing with those aerosol sprays, the different chemicals and substances within the deodorant products can easily inflame sinuses, cause irritation to the eyes and throat and skin, etc. Ingredients like this can be harmful to you and your skin.
For best results from your allergy medication, you must follow the instructions properly and heed all warnings. It is common for such drugs to require multiple days of consistent use if they are to work well. You will not be able to simply take one dose at the first sign of a sneeze. Speak with a doctor about proper dosages.
Keep your garbage outside. When you have garbage in your home, it can bring about pests. Mice droppings can make allergy symptoms worsen. If the rodents stay in your home after relocating the trash, get some traps. If you continue to have troubles with pests, hire a professional to handle the situation effectively.
People who have allergies should vacuum quite often. That way, allergens will be greatly reduced. Be sure to give your vacuum a thorough inspection. If you have an older vacuum, it will blow allergens back into the environment. Vacuums today include HEPA filters, which trap nearly all small particles that can cause allergies.
The easiest way to start making headway against allergies is to learn basic information about them. Allergy sufferers have a world of medications and treatment options at their disposal. Remember to learn all what you can through guides such as this one.