Overview
Allergies are a common problem for people of all ages. Symptoms of allergies vary from mild to severe, and can include sneezing, coughing, itchy eyes, runny nose, and difficulty breathing. If you suffer from allergies, there are some steps you can take to reduce your allergy symptoms.
Identify the Allergen
The first step to reducing your allergy symptoms is to identify the allergen or allergens that are causing your symptoms. Common allergens include dust, pollen, pet dander, mold, and certain foods. Allergens can be found in the air, on surfaces, and in food. Once you have identified the allergen, you can take steps to reduce your exposure to it.
Avoid the Allergen
Once you have identified the allergen, the best way to reduce your symptoms is to avoid it. This may mean avoiding certain areas or activities, such as spending time outdoors when pollen counts are high, or avoiding pet dander by not having pets in your home. You may also need to take extra steps to reduce your exposure to dust and mold, such as regularly dusting and vacuuming, and using a dehumidifier in damp or humid areas of your home.
Medications
In addition to avoiding the allergen, you may need to take medications to reduce your symptoms. Over-the-counter medications such as antihistamines and decongestants can help to reduce sneezing, coughing, and other allergy symptoms. If over-the-counter medications don't work, your doctor may prescribe a stronger medication or an allergy shot.
Allergy Relief Tips
In addition to avoiding the allergen and taking medications, there are some other things you can do to reduce your allergy symptoms. For example, you can use a saline nasal spray to help clear your nasal passages. You can also keep windows and doors closed to reduce exposure to pollen. Finally, you can try to reduce stress, which can worsen allergy symptoms.
By following these tips, you can take steps to reduce your allergy symptoms and enjoy better health.