Tips for Controlling Allergies

Pollens, mold, dust and many more allergens make allergies the 5^th most common chronic disease in the United States, which means a lot of us suffer from them. Not only do allergies affect us physically, but emotionally as well. They interfere with our home and work lives and zap us of our energy and disrupt our sleep.

Many things cause allergies, not just the commonly known pollens and molds associated with seasonal allergies. Cigarette smoke, food, animal dander, and even strong fumes can cause a reaction. Allergic rhinitis can set in when breathing, contacting or ingesting any allergen. Illnesses such as asthma and nasal polyps can be aggravated by allergies and cause multiple symptoms. Because allergies can often mimic an illness such as a respiratory infection or a cold, so it's important to see your doctor to get the necessary diagnosis. Taking a pro active approach to controlling allergies eases the suffering associated with them and can reduce the amount of medications needed to relieve symptoms.

Pollen control can be difficult to manage because it simply gets everywhere. It's tracked into our homes by pets and on the bottom of our shoes and sneaks in open house and car windows. Controlling the amount of pollen in your surroundings is a challenge but can make a difference in the severity of symptoms. For example, when doing yard work, shower immediately afterwards. Place the clothes worn outside for yard work in a bag if you can't wash them right away. Brushing and bathing your pet regularly will keep pollen from being brought in the house, as well as taking off your shoes before entering. HEPA filters work well clearing indoor air, while a paper face mask may be necessary when working outside. It may seem obvious, but keeping windows and doors closed makes a tremendous difference for many allergy sufferers.

Controlling the amount of mold we are exposed to can be difficult as well. Mold can remain hidden and is sometimes found in unexpected places. Mold does become air born and when we breathe it, it becomes an irritant for many. Although it may be impossible, avoid mowing grass or working with compost, or at least invest in a good mask to prevent breathing it in. Greenhouses and fields that have not been cut produce mold and should be avoided as well. When indoors, be sure to dry clothes thoroughly and clean furnace filters and refrigerator pans with bleach. A dehumidifier in your basement and upper floors will help keep mold to a minimum.

Controlling allergens from dust mites and insects in the home requires cleaning on a regular basis. Washing bedding weekly in hot water and using allergen proof mattress pads and pillow cases will make a noticeable difference in allergy sufferers. Insects like cockroaches can irritate allergies as well, so removing what attracts them is important. Trash should be kept sealed and store paper bags and cardboard outside, not under the kitchen sink. Sealing plumbing cracks will keep insects at bay as well. It may be necessary to contact an exterminator if an insect problem can't be resolved and your allergies are not improving.

It's important to wash and brush pets regularly in order to keep pet dander from exacerbating allergies. Never allow pets in the bed where you sleep. Vacuuming often and keeping a clean HEPA filter in an air purifier will also lessen the amount of dander in your home. If possible, confine your pet to a room without furniture or carpeting that collects pet dander. There are some treatments available from the veterinarian that will help minimize a dander problem that can't be resolved otherwise.

Planning that outdoor excursion or vacation? Taking an antihistamine about thirty minutes before heading out will make the day go by with less symptoms. A doctor can prescribe an antihistamine, but there are many over the counter antihistamines that work very well. Be sure to discuss with your doctor the different brands and which ones he recommends for your particular allergy issues.

The itching and watery eyes, postnasal drip, moodiness, and fatigue slow us down and can prevent us from enjoying the activities we love. Multiple allergy triggers can make each of our symptoms worse. By controlling the amount of allergens we are exposed to, we can live and breathe easier!