Although allergies are fairly common, sometimes reactions can be dangerous or fatal when they go untreated. It’s important that everyone get tested for allergies so they can avoid triggers and treat symptoms effectively. Read this article for more tips on how to deal with allergic symptoms, instead of letting them run your life!
Avoid line-drying your clothing, or linens if you suffer from allergies, especially during the spring. While the smell and feel of fresh, line-dried laundry can be a treat. It can also make you miserable when you bring in pollen from outdoors. Use the clothes dryer when pollen levels are at their peak.
People’s tolerance to allergens changes as they age. For instance, food allergies are prevalent in small children, who are just getting their first exposure to different foods. As babies grow into children, they are exposed to different protein allergens and may later develop allergies to pollen. Children who have never shown any indication of food allergies can, nonetheless, develop allergies to spores and pollen.
Check the pollen levels for the area. During allergy season, these are usually broadcast on the local news for the day. Make sure you watch the weather so you know how bad your allergies might be for the day, or if you should pack some allergy medicine with you for the day.
If you find yourself experiencing allergic symptoms around the family dog and cat, you may be tempted to blame the animal for your discomfort. You may be correct, but there is also a possibility that you are allergic to pet-borne pollen. If your pet spends time outdoors in vegetation-heavy areas, it may be picking up allergens and bringing them into the house. An allergy test can confirm or refute your suspicions.
If your allergies are accompanied by a harsh, hacking cough, irritation in the throat is probably to blame. This is especially common in those who fight post-nasal drip or mouth breathing. In many cases, the problem becomes more pronounced during the night. When this happens, try using pillows to prop you up in a half-reclining position while you sleep. If you can sleep while sitting upright, that’s even better.
Most coughs are caused by some form of allergic reaction, yet many people automatically attempt to treat the problem with cough suppressants. However, an allergic cough is your respiratory system’s way of breaking up, and clearing away mucus. Stifling that cough makes it difficult for your body to productively fight allergic symptoms.
Do not allow your seasonal allergies keep you from the joys and health benefits of a good run outdoors. The best time to engage in physical activities outdoors is immediately after a rainshower. Rain tames clouds of pollens, spores and mold and makes you less likely to encounter high allergen levels.
If you are allergic to pollen, and you need to control how much of it is in your home, you should change your bedding weekly. When you wash it, you should wash it in hot water to help remove the pollen. You should also take a shower before bed so that you can wash away the pollen that accumulates in your hair during the day.
If you have a latex allergy, avoid anything that contains it. Make sure you avoid latex bandages, clothing, gloves, and condoms. There are many different alternatives to these items. Ask you doctor for advice on how to find them. Check labels for warnings about latex beforehand.
It is important that you watch what you eat and drinks, if you suffer from ragweed allergies. Believe it or not, certain foods and drinks can trigger your ragweed allergy symptoms. Some of the foods you need to avoid include cucumbers, bananas, sunflower seeds, melons, zucchini, and chamomile tea.
You have probably picked up some unwanted airborne allergens if you have been outside for an hour or longer. It can help to take a shower when you get home, or before going to bed. Allergens like pollen, dust, and spores will wash away under running water. They may have collected on your skin or in your hair.
A good tip to remember if you suffer from any type of allergies that cause discomfort in your eyes is to always avoid rubbing your eyes. It’s smarter to relieve the symptoms using eye drops with antihistamine ingredients. Rubbing you eyes will irritate the lash follicles and can result in allergic styes.
If your allergies are severe, consider replacing the rugs or carpeting in your home with hard-wood or linoleum. Carpets are the perfect place to harbor dust, mites and other particulates that will keep your nose running and sneezing! Have them replaced or make sure they are kept thoroughly cleaned with the vacuum and avoid the dusty carpet treatments that will also trigger your symptoms.
Allergies, often, have the miserable symptoms of a cold, without the eventual relief after the bug passes. Knowing the options that you have for dealing with symptoms can make living with allergies much more bearable. Remember the tips in this article, and you can go into public without getting dirty looks because of your sneezing!