Allergies can produce an array of symptoms that impact skin, sinuses, lungs, ears and the digestive system – and can even contribute to fatigue, poor sleep or depression.
Allergies are caused by an immune system’s overreaction to usually harmless substances such as pollen, pet dander and certain foods.
Know Your Triggers
Allergies are caused by an immune system reaction designed to defend the body against perceived or actual threats, but left untreated they can lead to chronic inflammation and reduced immune system functioning. While allergies are treatable conditions, the key to managing them effectively lies in understanding your allergy triggers.
Allergens are substances that can trigger allergic reactions in susceptible individuals through inhalation, ingestion or direct skin contact. Pollen, dust mites, pet dander and mold are among the many allergens commonly encountered, while certain foods like peanuts, shellfish eggs milk wheat etc can also pose risks of anaphylaxis when consumed directly by susceptible individuals.
An allergy diary can help you pinpoint what’s triggering your symptoms. By noting when symptoms improve or worsen, and keeping track of what makes allergies better or worsened over time, healthcare providers can work to identify any triggers to allergies.
Skin or blood tests to identify specific allergens can help you to avoid them, while allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots) may help desensitize the immune system and eventually reduce allergic reactions over time. If your allergy symptoms are severe and do not respond to over-the-counter treatments, consult a healthcare provider who may suggest stronger antihistamines, steroids and possibly allergy shots as necessary – these interventions will all serve to manage symptoms more effectively and enhance quality of life.
Change Your Clothes
Antihistamines or decongestants provide fast relief to many allergy symptoms – itchy eyes, sneezing, stuffy nose and runny nose among them – such as itching eyes or sneezing, stuffy nose or runny nose. You can purchase these over-the-counter medicines easily from pharmacies or grocery stores.
Allergens can attach themselves to clothing, shoes and hats; therefore it’s wise to change into clean clothes when arriving home. Alternating in the garage or outside prior to bringing indoor clothes can help prevent pollen entering your home; also showering as soon as possible after returning will ensure any allergens have been eliminated from your body.
Before putting on any new clothing, it is recommended that they are washed to ensure a positive experience. New clothes may contain more concentrated dyes or finishing sprays which could potentially trigger allergies or skin reactions in sensitive individuals.
When washing clothing, make sure that the detergent contains no added perfumes, dyes and phosphates. Also try to avoid harsh fabric softeners and dryer sheets which contain chemicals which could irritate your skin and nose. Instead, add white vinegar as an effective natural alternative that’s gentle on fabrics – not to mention great for keeping clothing and linens fresh-smelling!
Talk to a Healthcare Provider
Discussing allergy symptoms can be intimidating, but keep this in mind: they want to help! Before meeting with a healthcare provider, create a list of all of your symptoms as well as any related health problems (like high blood pressure or asthma). Bring along someone from your family or circle of friends – they can remind you of any questions and listen attentively when necessary.
Early diagnosis and treatment can make life with allergies easier. Allergies are chronic diseases, meaning they last long periods or occur frequently; they’re caused when your immune system recognizes something it shouldn’t see and overreacts, leading to inflammation.
Differing symptoms of allergies from other health conditions may be difficult, particularly when they involve food. Parents of children with food allergies face an additional difficulty when leaving care of their child with babysitters and relatives unfamiliar with managing these allergies.
Fatigue and brain fog caused by allergies can significantly diminish quality of life. They may also result in anxiety for both those affected directly as well as loved ones who constantly worry about exposure to allergens.
Be Prepared
Seasonal allergies or year-round food allergy symptoms can have a devastating impact on quality of life. Sneezing, runny nose and itchy eyes are only among many of their effects, which may prevent you from engaging in favorite activities and even cause you to miss work or school due to illness.
Although avoiding allergens is always best, sometimes that’s simply not possible, particularly when traveling or spending time with family and friends. Therefore, it’s essential that you plan ahead to ensure allergies won’t ruin your day!
Before venturing outdoors, be sure to check the pollen count in order to assess how high allergen levels may be. It may also be wise to bring allergy medicines with you just in case an unexpected reaction arises.
If your child has a food allergy, make sure all caregivers who may help are informed. This includes babysitters, teachers and any family members who will take care in caring for him/her.
Food allergies can be frightening and distressing, yet learning how to effectively manage them will make life simpler and easier. For helpful tips on managing a food allergy diagnosis, check out our Food Allergy Basics page.
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