Avoiding Allergies: From Foods to Feathers

Have you ever experienced itching and rashes after eating a lobster, a crab, or shrimps? Chances are you have an allergy. An allergy is an immune system response. The signs and symptoms of allergy are reactions of the immune system to substances or chemicals that are normally harmless. Just a little exposure to an allergen is enough to alert the immune system of the substance. Immediately, the immune system would signal for the release of histamine and other chemicals. The release of these chemicals triggers swelling, itching, mucus production, hives, rashes, and muscle spasms. The extent of the reaction is different from person to person. For some people, an allergic reaction could be life threatening and demand immediate medical attention. Life threatening reactions are called anaphylaxis. People with eczema and asthma usually have allergies connected with the disorders.

Allergens could be anything depending on a person's response. Some people are even allergic to hot or cold temperatures, sunlight, or other physical stimuli. Allergic reactions could also be brought about by the use of certain cosmetics, jewelry, and insect bites. The most common allergens include: pollen from trees, grass, and weeds, mold, proteins found in the skin, saliva, and urine of domesticated animals, and dust mites.

In order to prevent activating your allergy to pollen, take a bath or shower before bedtime to make sure to get rid of pollen on your hair and skin. During dry, windy days, avoid going outside and close windows and doors. You might need to have air conditioner at home and in your car. If you want to fight molds, remove house plants and clean shower curtains often, including bathroom windows, wet walls, areas with dry rot, and indoor trash cans. To effectively kill a mold, you have to use a mixture of water and chlorine bleach. To prevent mold, increase the movement of air inside the house using fans or by opening doors and windows. You may also decide to use mold-proof paint on your bathroom and use a humidifier to reduce humidity in the house.

If you have severe allergy related to your pets, perhaps it would be best not to have a pet in the first place. However, you could also do well by giving your pet a daily bath and by using air filter. You could also consult your friendly veterinarian about reducing pet dander in the house.

You can never get rid of dust and dust mites, but you could reduce them. To do so, get rid of feather pillows, drapes, upholstered furniture, non-washable comforters, and soft toys. Use linoleum or wood instead of a carpet, although polished floors are the best option for you. Mop the floor often with damp mop and clean surfaces with damp cloth. Regular vacuuming is needed, especially on soft furniture, curtains, and floors. You may also need to install an air cleaner. Try not to use mattress pads, but cover mattress and pillows with plastic covers instead. Lowering the humidity of the house also helps fight off dust.