Mold, dust mites, pet dander and other indoor allergens can trigger symptoms including watery eyes, runny nose and congestion. Medication or altering cleaning practices may provide temporary relief; alternative therapies include allergy shots or immunotherapy that involves gradually exposing yourself to these allergens over a longer period of time.
Medications
Indoor allergies are caused by substances like animal dander, dust mites and cockroach droppings – not as commonly encountered outdoors but just as likely to debilitate us. Antihistamines, decongestants and leukotriene modifiers may help relieve allergy symptoms associated with indoor allergens.
Allergy medications can reduce an allergic response by blocking histamine production – the substance responsible for allergic symptoms. Avoidance is always the preferred approach; however, medications can still be extremely useful in managing symptoms effectively.
Your allergist may suggest skin or blood tests to identify indoor allergens, and immunoglobulin E antibody tests against specific allergens; this information will allow them to determine if you are indeed sensitive to them and the allergens causing symptoms in you.
UPMC allergists offer various medications, from over-the-counter antihistamines such as Allegra, Claritin or Zyrtec to nasal sprays such as Florase to treat your symptoms. If necessary they can prescribe stronger medicines like steroids and leukotriene modifiers. Keeping a diary can also help your allergy specialist pinpoint where and when your symptoms flared up; keeping an appointment could help get the symptoms under control so you can enjoy life again without worry!
Allergy shots
Allergy shots, also known as immunotherapy, can help alleviate allergy symptoms and the need for medication. Immunotherapy shots contain small doses of allergens gradually introduced over time to stimulate your immune system to build tolerance. Immunotherapy requires significant commitment in its initial “build-up” stage when injections may need to be administered once or twice weekly or faster depending on what your doctor recommends; your shots will typically be given in their office with care taken to monitor any serious reactions such as anaphylaxis that could arise after every shot given there.
During the build-up period, it is common to experience redness or swelling at the site of injection, along with runny nose or sneezing reactions as an indicator that your treatment is working and your immune system is responding appropriately. These local reactions should serve as proof that it’s working.
Allergy shots may not be appropriate if your asthma is poorly managed; nor are they effective against food allergies or chronic hives (urticaria). They may, however, help treat seasonal allergic asthma caused by trees, grasses, weeds, molds or dust mites; although more recently ultrasound-guided intralymphatic immunotherapy (ILIT) offers similar relief that is administered from within your own home.
Keeping pets out of your home
Allergies can be both irritating and debilitating, and your home could be the source. If you find yourself frequently sneezing and itching due to indoor allergies caused by pet dander, dust mites, mold spores or cockroach allergens – symptoms which are more prevalent year-round despite warmer climates.
Though allergy medication can help lessen symptoms, limiting exposure to indoor allergens is the best way to combat them. Cleanliness in the home, use of air filters, and opting for wood flooring instead of wall-to-wall carpet are all effective strategies that can keep dust mites, cockroaches and pets at bay.
Pets can also contribute to indoor allergies, but sometimes this is not possible. Instead, ask a non-allergic family member to keep an eye out for your animals when you’re away and bathe and brush your pet regularly so as to minimize pet dander production.
If you suspect indoor allergies, consult an allergist for treatment options. They will conduct a skin test to identify which allergen is triggering symptoms and suggest treatment plans accordingly; additionally they can discuss allergy immunotherapy as an additional long-term strategy that could help eliminate allergens altogether.1
Keeping your home clean
Millions of people suffer from indoor allergens like dust mite droppings, animal dander and cockroach droppings that cause allergies. These allergens can trigger symptoms including sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, roof of mouth or throat itchiness and congestion – symptoms which usually persist year round unlike seasonal or weather-related outdoor allergies.
Maintaining an organized home can help both you and your loved ones better manage allergy symptoms. Vacuum regularly, particularly under and behind furniture. Consider switching out carpet for wood or tile floors which are easier to keep clean while helping decrease indoor allergens.
Clean bedding, pillows and blankets regularly in hot water to reduce dust mites. Use allergen-proof pillow and mattress covers. Limit house plants so as to not introduce new allergens; and if you have pets, keep them out of the bedroom while regularly grooming them so as to reduce pet dander.
Mold and mildew thrive in damp environments like basements, bathrooms and kitchens, where moisture-laden air circulates. When they grow in these spaces, their spores float freely through the air causing allergic reactions in susceptible individuals.
If you or a loved one is experiencing indoor allergies, consult with their family physician who may refer them to an immunologist for additional testing and treatment options. Improving air quality in your home can dramatically decrease allergy and asthma symptoms – medications, shots, cleaning products and dehumidifiers all may be effective tools in managing symptoms effectively.
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