How to Deal with Annoying Allergies

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How to Deal with Annoying Allergies

Don't let your allergy symptoms get the better of you.

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There's a lot you can do to reduce the impact that allergies have on

your life.

Be aware of the most common types of indoor allergens

Many common indoor allergens are actually outdoor allergens that are

tracked into our living spaces by people and pets.

Pollen, given off seasonally by trees, grass and weeds, is

responsible for triggering most cases of hay fever (allergic

rhinitis). The plant most commonly associated with pollen allergies

is ragweed.

Molds are often found indoors where the humidity is high, and they

can easily become airborne and trigger cases of allergic rhinitis.

Animal dander is made up of little bits of skin, feather or dried

saliva from animals (usually cats and dogs).

Dander is small enough that it can easily be stirred up into the air

and inhaled. The debris from dust mites, who live in the dust found

indoors, can also be stirred into the air and exacerbate an allergy

condition.

Watch out for common food allergens

Food allergy reactions can be dangerous or even deadly, so people

with food allergies must be careful of what they eat, where they eat

and what ingredients are used.

Eggs allergies are another common food allergy. Although they are

common in children, egg allergies may be outgrown by adulthood. On

the other hand, many people do not find out they have a seafood

allergy until they are adults.

Take the initiative against indoor allergens

A true HEPA air filter or HEPA vacuum cleaner can be used to remove

all types of airborne allergens from the air or a surface. You

should always be sure to replace air filters and clean vents

frequently to cut down on the dirty buildup of dust, mold or pollen.

Using hardwood or tile floors makes it harder for allergens to build

up as they do in carpeting. Window shades are better choices than

blinds or draperies, and they're also easier to clean. Using a

dehumidifier can reduce mold growth. Mold tends to grow rapidly when

the humidity is higher than 50 percent.

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The best way to avoid the allergy is to avoid the allergen

Your best bet in preventing allergy symptoms is avoidance - limiting

exposure to allergens that cause symptoms. Avoidance is the first

treatment a doctor recommends to someone with allergies. It is

frequently the only step necessary for allergies related to foods,

medications and animals. In some cases, avoidance is a one-time

decision that requires little ongoing maintenance.

For example, people allergic to penicillin simply avoid using that

drug. In other cases, avoidance requires much more effort. People

allergic to dust mites must stay on their guard to keep their home

as dust-free as possible.

Avoidance may not always be possible or practical. Sometimes,

medications or allergy shots (immunotherapy) are necessary to keep

symptoms at bay. People with allergy symptoms should always consult

a doctor, who can help them formulate the best treatment plan.

Keep in mind that allergies can come from unexpected places

People often don't realize it, but you can become allergic to any

type of cosmetic or their chemical ingredients. Such products

include makeup, skin-care creams, lotions, powders, sprays,

perfumes, fingernail polishes, permanent waves, hair colors,

deodorants, baby products, bath oils, bubble baths and mouthwashes.

You may also become allergic to the metals in many types of jewelry.

Latex allergies are becoming more and more common in the United

States. This type of allergy usually involves contact with a latex

product, such as a medical glove or a condom. Insect stings can

trigger an allergic reaction in a few rare individuals.

Although they are not common, insect allergies can be severe. Many

people are surprised to find that they are allergic to a medication.

Penicillin in particular is an allergen for many people.

SOURCE: HealthCentersOnline