How to Manage Allergies

This article was written as a guest post by Disturb Me Not!

Allergies can be very problematic. Sometimes, you may find yourself reacting to something you never had a problem with before. According to studies, 54.6% of people in the US have reaction to at least one allergen. Allergies do not affect people of a specific age or a particular gender. Anyone can develop one.

Allergies are reactions to specific substances that the immune system identifies as harmful. Even though they may not be harmful, the system will build up antibodies to fight them nevertheless.

An allergen refers to a substance that triggers the reaction. There are various things your immune system can react to, such as food, drugs, latex, or insect stings or bites. The reaction can range from mild to severe and life-threatening.

If you suspect you’re allergic to something, the first thing to do is to find out what you are reacting to. You can see a doctor to carry out the required tests. When you discover what you’re struggling with, it’s easier to recognize early symptoms.

The best way to manage your allergies is to avoid allergens. This may seem difficult to do if you have to avoid something you have a level of attachment to. Such a scenario is evident in this case, where this individual adores potatoes but had to give it up because of an allergy.

You are less likely to have an allergic reaction if you try to control your contact with allergens. People suffering from severe allergies should always carry along epinephrine (adrenaline) auto-injector wherever they go. 

Apply lotion before going camping or hiking to keep poison ivy from getting into your skin. Check product ingredients before purchase to control food or ingredient-specific allergies. For pet allergies, keep the pet away from the bedroom and limit its access to specific parts of the house. 

Keep your room properly ventilated and dry to avoid mold spores. Also, wipe surfaces with a clean, damp cloth to keep dust mites away from your house. If you have to go out, cover your body properly to reduce exposure to insect bites as they can cause an allergic reaction.

If you cannot avoid allergens altogether, there are three conventional treatments. You can use them to manage your allergies so that you could continue doing the things you love.

Antihistamines

Antihistamines are over-the-counter medications that give relief from reactions such as nasal congestion, pollen hives, sneezing, dust mites, or pet allergies. Depending on the body part that requires the treatment, you can use antihistamines as liquids, tablets, or nasal spray. Their effects are long-lasting, so you can take them once a day.

Allergy Shots 

Allergy shots represent a form of immunotherapy. You can receive shots over a while to help reduce sensitivity to allergens. This form of treatment is suitable for severe allergies.

Decongestants

Decongestants help relieve symptoms of nasal congestion such as the stuffy and blocked nose. You can get a good symptom relief through short-term use of decongestants. Make sure to follow the instructions for use strictly as regular use of decongestants nasal spray can damage the lining of the nose. 

Bottom Line 

It is best to avoid your allergens as far as possible using the tips suggested here. However, you can also manage symptoms when they occur by using the medication discussed above. You can find the particular treatment that matches your lifestyle, your purse, and your allergies. 

Let your friends and family members know what you are allergic to, as well as where you store your epinephrine. Also, you could wear a MedicAlert bracelet to alert people of your condition in case of an emergency.

Infographic URL: https://disturbmenot.co/allergy-statistics-infographic/

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