Spring is in the air, and with it comes the joys of warmer weather – and allergies. For many people, allergy season can be a real challenge. Sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes – nobody wants to deal with that.
If you’re one of the millions of people who suffer from allergies, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
Here are some expert tips on how to manage your allergies and enjoy springtime to the fullest!
Step 1: Talk to Your Doctor
The first step in managing your allergies is to talk to your doctor. They can help you figure out what specific allergens are causing your symptoms and recommend the best course of treatment for you.
There are a variety of treatments available for allergies, including over-the-counter medications, prescription medications, and allergy shots. Your doctor can help you decide which one is right for you based on your specific needs and lifestyle.
You may also want to consider seeing an allergist, who specializes in diagnosing and treating allergies. Allergists are trained to identify the cause of allergy symptoms through a series of tests, including skin prick testing or blood draws from your arm. You can then discuss the best treatment options with them so that you have relief from your symptoms all year long.
Allergists are doctors who specialize in treating allergies and immunology. They go through a nine-year training program that includes medical school, residency programs at hospitals or clinics, and fellowship training with experts in their field.
If you’re not sure if an allergist is a right doctor for you, take a look at the American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology’s (AAAAI) website. There, you can find a list of allergen specialists in your area.
If you’re dealing with allergic reactions, go to an urgent care clinic. However, if you have trouble breathing or are having an allergic reaction that you can’t control on your own (like hives), head straight for an emergency room.
Step 2: Identify Your Allergens
The next step in managing your allergies is to identify the specific allergens causing your symptoms. This can be done through a process called skin prick testing, where small amounts of different allergens are placed on the skin and then scratched or pricked with a needle.
Another way is through a blood test, which measures the amount of IgE antibodies in your bloodstream. IgE antibodies are proteins in response to allergens.
Some of the most common allergens include:
- Dust mites
- Pollen
- Pet dander
- Mold spores
- Foods like peanuts and shellfish
- Insect stings from bees or wasps
- Medications such as penicillin or aspirin
Step 3: Take Steps to Reduce Your Exposure to Allergens
Once you know what your allergens are, you can take steps to reduce your exposure to them. This includes:
- Wearing a dust mask when cleaning or doing yard work
- Keeping windows and doors closed during allergy season
- Using an air purifier in your home
- Washing your sheets and pillowcases every week in hot water to get rid of dust mites
- Avoiding contact with pets if you’re allergic to them
- Removing carpets from your home, if possible
- Not smoking, as smoke can aggravate allergies
- Avoiding outdoor activities on windy days when pollen counts are high
- Taking a shower after being outdoors to wash off any allergens that may have gotten on you from the air or plants
- Avoiding foods and medications that trigger your allergies, if possible
If you’re still suffering from allergy symptoms despite taking these steps, talk to your doctor about other treatments that may be available.
For example, you can try over-the-counter medications such as Claritin or Allegra to reduce your symptoms. If those don’t work for you, your doctor may prescribe something stronger like Zyrtec or Xyzal, which will give relief from itchy eyes and congestion caused by allergies.
Step 4: Consider Immunotherapy to Help Reduce Your Allergy Symptoms
If you’re still suffering from allergy symptoms despite taking these steps, talk to your doctor about other treatments that may be available.
One of the best ways to manage allergies is through immunotherapy, which involves getting shots over a period. The goal is for the body’s immune system to get used to the allergens, eventually reducing or eliminating your symptoms.
Immunotherapy is a safe and effective way to treat allergies, but it does take time for it to work. Most people see results within three to five years of starting treatment.
Talk to your doctor about whether immunotherapy may be a good option for you. They can help you figure out if it’s the right treatment for your allergies and how long it will take for you to see results.
Managing allergies doesn’t have to be difficult! By following these tips, you can reduce your symptoms and live a more comfortable life.
