Allergies are caused by an overreaction to an allergen, which is normally harmless to us. Common examples of allergic reactions are hay fever, asthma, chickenpox, eczema and food allergy among others. The symptoms and signs of allergic reactions are very similar to other medical disorders, so always visit your physician for professional diagnosis and management. A typical allergic reaction may be sneezing, itchy eyes, coughing, hives, swelling of the face or mouth, rashes and vomiting.
In case of an allergic reaction, your physician may prescribe antihistamines, steroids or anti-allergy drugs known as allergy shots. There are also decongestants, nasal sprays, corticosteroids and desensitizing injections available in the market today. You can also take oral antihistamines or allergy pills to counter the effects of allergy shots. Allergic reactions can also be minimized by using air purifiers, air conditioners and reducing exposure to allergens. However, if these methods fail, then your physician may opt for a combination of medications.
Individuals who suffer from allergies should avoid common allergens like dust, mites, pet dander and pollens. This can prevent them from having an attack. Clothing which traps dirt and moisture may increase the risk of developing allergies. In order to minimize your exposure to common allergens, wear a N95 filter in your air conditioning system to trap dirt particles in your home. If possible, use air filters that can easily be washed and reused.
Some symptoms that you need to be aware of include throat itching, coughing, wheezing and swelling of the eyes, lips and tongue. If your symptoms do not improve after a few days of treatment, it is time to see a doctor. Most cases of allergy have clear triggers which usually differ from person to person. However, in some cases, there may be certain foods or activities that trigger symptoms.
Your doctor may advise you to use antihistamines to prevent allergies. If these fail to relieve the symptoms, then your case is better treated by a doctor. There are several types of allergy medications available on the market. They work by reducing the effect of the symptoms produced by allergies. The most commonly used types of medications include nasal sprays, oral antihistamines and steroids.
If the symptoms produced by allergy are persistent and severe, then you should contact your doctor immediately. You may be allergic to one or more substances that are present in the house. Allergy shots are also available to help you reduce the effect of the allergy caused by dust and pollen. A nose wash containing saline solution is an effective way to clean the nose of allergens. Taking precautionary measures will help you prevent serious complications from occurring.
