Allergies are conditions whereby the immune system reacts abnormally to foreign substances. An allergic reaction can be mild, irritating, and sometimes severe, hence the need to arm oneself against allergic triggers (also known as allergens). Substances like dust, mold, pet dander, grass, peanuts, and other substances that cause allergy are called allergens.
The ideal way to prevent an allergic reaction is to avoid specific allergy triggers.
Here are 4 other proven ways:
1. Go for Allergy Testing
If you suspect you have an allergy, you should go for allergy testing. The result of your allergy test will arm you with knowledge about your allergy, how to prevent an allergy attack and what medications to take. This information will help with the prevention and relief of symptoms. How to avoid some known allergens:
- Pollens. Avoid outdoors when the pollen count is high. Wash your clothes and shower after activities outdoors. The use of an air conditioner in your home and office to prevent pollen is ideal.
- Dust Mites. Rid your home of dust and dust mite. Find alternative floor covering and furniture that would not harbor dust mites. Use a vacuum cleaner fitted with a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filter.
- Specific food. Check labels when purchasing food items and inform friends or restaurant staff about your food allergies when eating out.
- Mold Spores. Keep your home dry and properly ventilated. Remove any indoor plants that may cause mold spores.
- Insect Stings/Bites. Cover exposed parts of your body when outdoors and use insect repellent where the need arises.
- Pet Dander: keep pets outside or limit them to a particular part of the house. Also, groom and wash your pets often.
2. Carry Your Medications With You Always (for severe cases)
know the first thing to do when you are having an allergy reaction and Share this knowledge with close friends and family. If you are at risk of anaphylaxis (a severe allergic reaction), make sure you carry 2 adrenaline auto-injectors with you always. Wearing a Medi-Tag bracelet is also a good idea. Inform family and close associates, so that they are aware of your allergy and can help you in emergencies. If someone is having an anaphylaxis reaction, call 911.
3. Seek Medical Help
A medical professional can provide treatment options to relieve symptoms and make you feel better. Depending on your symptoms or specific allergy; saline nasal rinses, drugs, creams, prevention strategy, and immunotherapy (allergy shots) are a few of the available care alternatives.
4. Try Natural Treatment
The American Association of Naturopathic Physicians recommends these treatments for allergies: supplements like vitamin C, flaxseed oil, and zinc. Plant-based chemicals are called bioflavonoids. These natural chemicals and nutrients found in fruits and blackcurrants may act as natural antihistamines. Acupuncture is another natural option that may provide relief for people struggling with allergies.
Remember: know your allergy symptoms, take steps to avoid allergy triggers, and seek professional help. Allergy medications are available. With these, you are on the path towards symptoms alleviation.
Contact us for your Allergy Testing and Treatment at (704) 736-9959.