Allergies come in many forms. The most common symptoms include itchy, watery eyes, sneezing, runny, itchy or stuffy nose and fatigue. The symptoms are very similar to those of common cold, but they last longer. Symptoms that occur in specific season each year especially during early summer or spring are usually related caused to tree, grass, and weed pollen. Allergies that persist year long could be due to mites in household dust, cockroaches, mold spores, and animal dander. Often allergies run in families.

When to see the doctor?

If you develop severe allergic reaction immediately after taking a drug, food or are stung by an insect and you experience:

• Lightheadedness

• Swelling around lips, tongue, or face that makes breathing difficult or is getting worse

• Wheezing or difficulty in breathing

Home treatment:

If you can detect the source of allergies, avoiding the substance maybe the best treatment. Tracking the symptoms, time of onset of allergies, substances you are allergic to could make it easier to avoid or treat allergies.

General information about avoiding irritants:

• Avoid yard work which stirs up both pollen and mold. If you have to do yard work, wear a mask or take an antihistamine beforehand.
• Eliminate aerosol sprays, perfumes, room deodorizers, cleaning products and other substances that can trigger allergy.

If your symptoms are seasonal then,

• Keep your house and car windows closed.
• Limit the time you spend outdoors when pollen counts are high.

If your symptoms are all year round and seem to be related to dust:

• Keep your bedroom and other places where you spend a lot of time as dust free as possible.
• Avoid upholstery furniture and heavy draperies. Avoid wool blankets. Wash all beddings in hot water once a week.

If you symptoms are year round and are worse during damp weather, they maybe related to mold or mildew:

• Keep your home well ventilated and dry.
• Clean bathrooms and kitchen surfaces often with bleach to reduce mold growth.

If you are allergic to pets:

• Keep the animal outside or at least out of your bedroom.
• If your symptoms are severe, stay away from pets and maybe find a new home for the pet.
   

Antihistamines and decongestants may relieve some allergy symptoms. Use caution while taking these. Cetriz, Allegra 120mg are a few of the allergy medications that are available over the counter in retail pharmacies.

If you have hypertension, glaucoma and any other chronic disease condition, talk to your doctor before taking decongestants.
 

Back