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Don’t Get Plagued By Allergies
For many, seasonal allergies are an unfortunate reality. Between avoiding certain foods, activities, and environments; to dealing with the constant sniffling, sneezing, and watery eyes – living with seasonal allergies can be a challenge. But it doesn't have to be that way. While there is no cure for allergies yet, understanding them better will help you manage your symptoms so you can get back to being allergy-free during these seasons! In this blog, we'll discuss what causes seasonal allergies and how to recognize when they occur to treat them quickly with appropriate remedies.
What Are Seasonal Allergies and How Do They Occur?
Seasonal allergies occur when your body's immune system reacts to pollen and other allergens while they are in the air. These triggers enter the body through the nose, skin, or mouth as people breathe in, and an allergic reaction occurs when the antibodies respond to them. Symptoms can range from mild, like a runny nose or sneezing, to more severe, like severe asthma attacks.
When determining why allergies have developed during particular times of the year, looking into what a person might be allergic to, such as specific pollen or mold, is essential. It is also necessary to know where the exposure comes from. By doing this research, one can develop strategies to avoid specific triggers and manage seasonal allergy symptoms accordingly.
Key Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies
Identifying the key symptoms of seasonal allergies is the first step in helping to manage them. The most common symptoms are sneezing, congestion, itchy and watery eyes, and a runny nose. While these can be typical signs of the body trying to flush out an irritant, when these symptoms appear around the same time every year and last for weeks, this could be a sign that you have seasonal allergies.
Other symptoms such as coughing and scratchy throat, headaches, and fatigue can occur in some individuals due to their allergies. It is essential to recognize these signs and take appropriate steps to reduce exposure and reduce your reaction to particular allergens.
Preventing Seasonal Allergies With Home Remedies
Taking preventative measures to fight allergies before they start can be a great way to manage seasonal allergies. Home remedies, although usually used in treating allergies, can also be effective ways to help stave off your allergy symptoms before they even begin. Some common home remedies for fighting seasonal allergies include closing your windows on days with high pollen counts, reducing exposure to pet dander by avoiding contact with animals, and limiting outdoor time during peak allergen exposure periods.
An indoor air purifier or HEPA filter can also trap airborne pollen and other allergens that could cause issues. Finally, keeping your home clean is crucial; regular vacuuming and dusting can remove many particles that aggravate those suffering from allergies.
Over-the-Counter Treatments for Allergy Relief
When it comes to managing your seasonal allergies, there are a variety of over-the-counter medications to choose from. Many of these treatments focus on blocking or reducing histamine production, a chemical your body releases in response to an allergen. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and aspirin can also be taken. However, they should only be used if they don't interact with any other medicines you are taking.
Decongestants and nasal sprays may help alleviate symptoms such as congestion and a runny nose, while topical corticosteroids are useful against hives or swelling in affected areas. Finally, antihistamines like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) are available over the counter in both liquid and tablet forms, making them ideal for providing quick relief. Be sure to look for products specifically labeled for allergy treatment and follow the instructions carefully when using them for the best results.
Avoiding Triggers That May Exacerbate Your Allergy Symptoms
Seasonal allergies can be extremely unpleasant, and understanding what can trigger them is essential in minimizing their impact. Common triggers include pollen, pet dander, dust mites, and mold. It is crucial to understand how you react to different environments to reduce the chance of having a reaction to allergens.
For instance, avoiding outdoor activities on high pollen days or keeping pets out of your home if their fur irritates you are both practical measures for reducing exposure. Taking precautions such as wearing face masks when outside or using air filters indoors may also help stave off environmental allergens. Lastly, some lifestyle accommodations can help keep symptoms at bay, such as showering after being outdoors and washing pet bedding regularly, as well as vacuuming upholstery rugs to reduce allergen build-up.
Get Help From Des Moines Allergy Specialists
Seasonal allergies can be a significant inconvenience, but they do not have to be an issue. With the proper knowledge and preventative measures, you can find the relief and comfort that comes along with managing your symptoms. Even over-the-counter medications, home remedies, and lifestyle modifications are key components in any allergy management plan. Managing your seasonal allergy symptoms may seem like a lot of work, but it is worth it as it helps you get back to living a normal life. Remember that understanding what causes allergies is the first step toward finding way to fight them!
If you need help managing your seasonal allergies, don't hesitate to reach out for professional help from Allergy Institute PC. We know how debilitating allergies can be, and we're dedicated to helping our patients find solutions.
Learn more about how we can help or schedule an appointment by calling (515) 619-5179 or visiting our website.