According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], it is estimated that more than 50 million people in the United States have allergies. An allergy is defined as an abnormal response from the immune system to an exposure to an allergen. Numerous conditions fall under the umbrella of allergies, including allergic rhinitis, anaphylaxis, skin allergies, food allergies, etc.
These days, we have advanced treatment for allergies such as low dose allergen immunotherapy. It can help ease allergy symptoms. While sometimes it is difficult to treat allergy, especially depending on the nature of the allergy, there are several proactive measures you can take to manage it. In this article, we take a look at ways to manage allergies. Let’s delve into them.
1. Identify triggers
One of the best proactive steps to managing allergies is by identifying triggers. You need to understand what triggers your allergies. This can be achieved by doing allergy testing, including blood tests or skin tests, which must be done by a healthcare professional. Triggers can include pollen, dust, foods, mold, pet dander, etc.
Once you have understood your triggers, you need to avoid them. If it is pollen, stay indoors on high pollen days and keep your windows closed. If it’s mold, reduce indoor humidity and have the mold removed. For food, read labels carefully and avoid cross-contamination.
2. Make lifestyle adjustments
Some lifestyle adjustments can help you manage allergies. For instance, you need to ensure a clean home. Perform frequent cleaning as it can help reduce dust, pet dander, and other allergens. Vacuum carpets regularly, dust surfaces, and wash your bedding regularly. Additionally, after spending time outdoors for an extended period, shower and change clothes immediately to remove any pollen and other allergens. Lastly, exercise because regular physical activity can improve overall health and help manage symptoms, especially of allergic rhinitis.
3. Recognize symptoms and take immediate action
It is also good to understand and recognize allergy symptoms. These symptoms can be moderate or severe, depending on your allergy. Mild to moderate reactions include rash, itching, watery eyes, sneezing, and mild swelling. On the other hand, severe reactions include swelling of the throat or tongue, difficulty breathing, dizziness, loss of consciousness, and rapid pulse.
If you notice any of these symptoms, you need to take immediate action. For mild reactions, take an antihistamine and monitor your symptoms. You can also use topical creams to ease itching and rash. For severe reactions, if you experience signs of anaphylaxis, administer an epinephrine auto-injector immediately. Then can call emergency services and seek proper medical attention right away.
4. Prioritize ongoing management and treatment
You need to get regular allergy shots to help desensitize the immune system to specific allergens, reducing the severity of allergic reactions. Sublingual immunotherapy involves placing tablets and drops under the tongue. This is an alternative to allergy shots, and it is especially beneficial for pollen allergies. Or you can go for LDA allergy shots. The LDA allergy affects allergy symptoms by reducing them.
5. Go for regular check-ups
Finally, another proactive step to managing and treating your allergy is by going for regular check-ups. Visit an allergist or a professional healthcare provider to monitor your condition and adjust treatment as required. You and your doctor can come up with a personalized action plan, highlighting steps to take during an allergic reaction and how to use emergency medications.
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