How to Prevent Allergies

Children and adults alike suffer from allergy. They sneeze, cough, and itch. Some people have outdoor allergies, and some have indoor allergies. We can't control nature, but we can eliminate allergens inside our homes, the foods we eat, and the drugs we used. According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, about 50 million people suffer from some types of allergies.

Most families find that replacing the carpet, changing air filters, and keeping a routine cleaning helped. When suffering from allergies such as watery eyes, sneezing, coughing, sniffling, and runny nose, they have an impact on your life. Here are some areas where you can make changes to prevent irritants.

1. Air

Ventilation system is the most import part in your home. Keep it dirt free, and maintained to filter out allergens. Clean your dehumidifier once a month. Change your furnace's filters often. Use ceiling fans to circulate air and keep moisture from condensing or mold forming.

2. Foods

Eggs, peanuts, and seafood are the most common type of food allergies. Changing your diet would help controlling your allergic reaction. Children are generally allergic to eggs and peanuts, while adults are usually allergic to seafood.

3. Pets

Saliva and dander, not fur, cause most pet allergies. When your pet licks himself, the protein in saliva sticks to the fur, and then floats into your nose or lung, caused an allergic reaction. Grooming or bathing your pet every month can help keep allergens to a minimum. Keep you furry friend out of your bedrooms.

4. Dark, damp spaces

Places such as basement, and bathrooms where moisture collect and form molds can trigger allergies to flare up. If you smell the musty odor of molds you need to dry up the moisture. Fix leaks, drips, or any cracks around the edges of windows, tubs, and showers. To clean mold from the surface, use a mixture of bleach and water.

5. Drug

Penicillin is a common type of drug allergy, and has quite a severe reaction. If you are allergic to penicillin, make sure you wear a medical bracelet or necklace alert.

6. Windows

Keep your windows closed during peak allergy season can keep pollen from coming in. The highest pollen count is from 4:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Keep your windows closed before going to bed so you won't wake up sneezing, tearing, and runny nose. If possible, change draperies, and blinds to window shades since they are easier to clean.

7. Latex

The sap in the rubber trees causes allergic reaction to some people. Make sure your products have no latex in them including condom, and clothing.

8. Bedding

Your bed is a haven for microscopic dust mites. Wash bedding in hot water to kill these little insects. The hot water temperature should be at 130 degrees for it to work. Buy sealed covers for pillows, mattress, and box springs. People who are allergic to dust mites, must keep their home as dust-free as possible.

The best way to avoid allergies is to stay away from allergens. Having allergy is miserable and uncomfortable, but you can reduce the impact by keeping them under controlled. Medications can give a temporary relieve, so talk to your doctor to see which is best for you.