Every spring, millions of people wonder, “How do I get rid of my allergies ?” When trees and plants bloom, some people experience sneezing, a runny nose, and itchy eyes. Many people who suffer from food allergies or are allergic to certain foods or indoor irritants such as dust and pet dander, want to get rid of their allergy symptoms all year. Here’s a short rundown on what allergies are and how to get rid of their symptoms.
What are allergies ?
Allergies are triggered by the immune system responding inappropriately to harmless substances in our environment. Pet dander, dust mites, food (such as peanuts or shellfish), and pollen are all common allergens. When an allergic person gets exposed to an allergen, the body releases a protein, as well as the chemical histamine and other inflammatory chemicals, to combat the allergen. Allergy symptoms are caused by the irritation of the nasal passages, skin, and throat caused by the protein and histamine.
Symptoms of allergies can range from medium to serious. Sneezing, coughing, itchy or watery eyes, a runny or stuffy nose, rash, upset stomach, and swollen lips, tongue, eyes, or face are the most common allergy symptoms. Anaphylaxis is a rare and severe allergic reaction that causes swelling of the mouth and throat, as well as difficulty breathing. If you or anyone close to you develops anaphylaxis, seek medical attention right away.
Allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever, is a natural reaction to allergens inhaled through the nose. Seasonal allergy symptoms can occur only during specific seasons, or they can occur all year. For example, pollen counts or ragweed can be allergy triggers in the summer (when most of us think of allergy season), but some people find dusty indoor air just as annoying in the winter. Allergies are particularly common in the United States, with 40 to 60 million people suffering from allergic rhinitis.
Is it achievable to get rid of allergies definitely?
Yes,it’s possible in some situations. Some children grow out of their allergies, while some adults’ allergies fade over time. The American Academy of Allergy revealed that allergy shots can provide long-term relief for some people, although allergies can recur in others after they stop taking them.
Allergy symptoms can be treated and monitored for the most part, but allergies cannot be cured.
How to Deal with Allergies:
- Avoidance
Avoiding the allergens that triggers you is the simplest way to avoid allergies. It’s easier said than done. You can get a new pet if you’re allergic to cats, and you can miss the shellfish section of the menu if you’re allergic to shellfish. However, certain allergens, such as pollen and dust, are ubiquitous and can be difficult to avoid.
- Anti-allergy drugs
Antihistamines (such as Zyrtec, Xyzal, Claritin, or Allegra), corticosteroids, decongestants, nasal sprays, and eye drops (such as Zyrtec, Xyzal, Claritin, or Allegra) can help alleviate allergy symptoms. If your symptoms persist or become serious, your doctor can prescribe anti-inflammatory medications for your nose and sinuses, or consult an allergist for further testing and treatment.
- Antihistamines
If your allergy symptoms are persistent and bothersome, your doctor can suggest allergy shots. This is a form of immunotherapy that aids in the acclimatization of your immune system to certain allergens. Allergy shots are injections of a small amount of an allergen or a mixture of allergens given on a daily basis, and they can take months or years to function.
- Homeopathic treatments
Some home remedies, such as using a saline rinse (most commonly found in a device called a neti pot) to relieve nasal congestion, can help with allergy symptoms. In research, certain supplements, such as butterbur, have been shown to help with symptoms.
- Purifiers of the air (HIPA filters)
Indoor allergens can cause sneezing, runny noses, coughing, and scratching, so using an air purifier and/or vacuum with HEPA filters can help reduce the amount of allergens in the air. HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filters capture 99.97% of dust, pollen, mold, bacteria, and other 0.3 micron-sized airborne particles. A HEPA air purifier will flush out those irritants, while a vacuum with a HEPA filter will collect dust and allergens, preventing them from being expelled in the exhaust.
- Cleaning materials and fabrics that are hypoallergenic
Hypoallergenic cleaning products are available that remove allergens on surfaces while causing no irritation to the consumer. Anti-allergen sprays, unscented cleaners and detergents, and dust-trapping cloths are among them (such as microfiber). If you have a fragrance sensitivity, search for items that are labeled “hypo-allergenic,” “unscented,” or “free and clear.”