Dr. Eboni Green
September 15, 2021
Allergies often significantly impair the quality of life of those affected. Symptoms frequently include a runny nose, itchy eyes, coughing, and in some instances sleep disorders, difficulty concentrating, and daytime sleepiness. Treatment of the symptoms often only provides short-term relief; a causal treatment of the allergy takes time. There are a few tips that allergy sufferers can follow to reduce the symptoms, for example, reaching out to an allergy specialist.
Anyone who suspects they are suffering from an allergy should consult a doctor for an accurate diagnosis. An effective treatment is only possible when it has been clarified whether you are suffering from an allergy or if you have another medical condition. Allergies can worsen over time if no preventive and countermeasures are taken. A particularly well-known example of this is the “floor change” when a person has an allergic runny nose – because of pollen, animal allergens, house dust mites or mold. The runny nose then develops into allergic asthma over time and the disease no longer only causes discomfort in the nasopharynx but also, in the bronchi. Some people’s allergies become easier with age and some people still suffer from them long-term.
Once an allergy diagnosis has been made, targeted countermeasures can be initiated. One of the most important tips is to avoid contact with the triggering allergens as much as possible. This way the allergic complaints can be reduced significantly without side effects. In practice, however, this cannot always be achieved. Because while some allergens can be avoided, however others cannot. For example, it will be almost impossible to avoid pollen during the pollen season. If allergy symptoms occur, they should, be treated with antiallergic medication to reduce distress and to prevent the symptoms from worsening. You will also want to discuss any possible treatments with the doctor.
An allergy is an overreaction of the immune system to a certain substance. As a result, the body has a defense reaction that is felt as an allergy. When the doctor prescribes the right treatment allergy symptoms may appear weaker or not at all. This is after contact with the allergen, so that fewer antiallergic drugs are required. People with allergies do not have to suffer, as there are many ways to alleviate symptoms, at any age.
Pollen allergy sufferers have a hard time avoiding contact with the allergens during the pollen season, because tree or grass pollen can travel long distances. If you know exactly which pollen is causing the allergy, it may be useful to replace the corresponding plants in your yard or garden. Influencing factors that can exacerbate hay fever symptoms should be avoided. These include cigarette smoke, ozone, and chlorinated water in swimming pools. Contact lenses should not be worn if the conjunctiva is irritated by pollen. Sunglasses are recommended when you have conjunctivitis. It is also helpful to regularly follow the pollen forecast. If a particularly high concentration of the allergy-causing pollen is to be expected, pollen allergy sufferers should avoid unnecessary outdoor activities and keep the windows closed. In addition, pollen flight apps are available to help with predicting certain allergens at your respective location.
Only devices with a HEPA filter (High Efficiency Particulate Airfilter) should be used for vacuuming and all smooth floor coverings should be wiped with a damp cloth. This is also good for long-term care facilities. In the pollen season, you should also avoid drying your laundry outdoors or changing your clothes in the bedroom.
In conclusion, there are a variety of environmental causes of allergies. It is always a good idea to work with the doctor to determine a treatment plan to improve your quality of life.
