There are many different types of allergy that can affect you at different points in your life. Unfortunately, allergies are becoming increasingly widespread and can be triggered by simple factors such as changes in lifestyle or diet. It’s likely that you, or a family member, will be affected by one of the more common allergies at some point in your life. So, if you think you may have an allergy, or are unsure how best to treat it, then worry not. Allergies can be lowering and make you feel sluggish if you don’t know how to treat it. Read on to find out how to treat the most common allergies, so that they don’t affect your health.
According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, more than 50 million Americans suffer from allergies each year, so don’t let yourself be another statistic! First and foremost, you need to identify the triggers that cause your allergy. It could be that you eat a certain food, such as bread or beer that contain gluten. Environmental factors, such as pollen can cause wheeziness and red, runny eyes if you suffer from hay fever. Perennial environmental allergies, normally provoked by dust, mites, and animal skin flakes, can happen at any time during the year. These symptoms occur when you have been cleaning your house or exposed to dust, or even when petting a cat or dog. Once you have identified the factors that make your allergy worse, now you can begin treatment.
Food Allergies
Differing food groups can provoke a range of reactions in different people. You may already be suffering from a food allergy already, without even realizing it. Symptoms such as bloating or feeling tired and lethargic after eating certain foods are a sign that something isn’t quite right. If you do suspect that you have an allergy, then now’s the time to make an appointment with your local doctor or nutritionist. Treating this kind of allergy is usually fairly simple. However, more serious allergies, such as nut related allergies, need special treatment. If you, or a family member, suffer from a nut allergy then you may need an EpiPen to use in an emergency. Following an elimination diet can treat other food allergies or intolerances. This basically means that you cut out a specific food or product from your diet completely, to see if this reduces your symptoms.
Hay Fever
Although more common in the spring and summer months, hay fever can make your life a misery if not properly treated. Red, streaming eyes and a runny nose, are sure symptoms that you have an allergy that is triggered by pollen. So, if you want to enjoy those picnics in the park, then you will need to follow a treatment to reduce your symptoms. Sniffing and sneezing any more than usual is a sign that you are suffering from hay fever. If you are looking for a quick fix, then over the counter medication can help get rid of any more serious symptoms. However, allergy pills can make you more sleepy and tired than usual, reducing your energy and affecting your mood in some cases. For a more natural treatment, buying honey from your local area can help build up your tolerance to pollen. By adding some honey to your tea, or adding it to your sandwiches, you help your immune system build up its level of resistance. If your children suffer from hay fever, this can be particularly distressing and upsetting if they enjoy playing outside. You may want to provide your kids with sunglasses to help streaming eyes. Ensure that they take breaks if they get wheezy or breathless too. There’s no need to let an allergy ruin your lifestyle, but make sure you are extra cautious and prepared.
Animal allergies
Sniffles and sneezes around a family pet, could be a sign that you have an animal allergy. The symptoms can vary in severity from person to person. If you do have an allergy that is provoked by being around cats or dogs, then it is best to avoid visiting homes that own them. Normally, when you suffer from an animal allergy, sneezing or a streaming nose is the worst symptom. However, if you do experience a more serious reaction then you should be sure to visit a doctor. If you have a family member that is particularly susceptible to mites or animal allergies, then make sure that your home is kept fully pest free.
Insect stings can also provoke a reaction. Wheezing, shortness of breath and swelling after a sting could be a sign that you are having a more serious reaction. In the case of a bee or wasp sting, you could experience swelling in your airwaves, caused by anaphylaxis. This can be potentially fatal if not treated, so if you or a family member reacts in this way, then they need urgent medical attention. If you do suffer from a reaction when insects sting you, then make sure you carry around a repellent spray to keep them away from you and your home. Citronella candles are a more natural repellent for bees and wasps, meaning that you can enjoy eating in the outdoors, without worrying about any unwanted guests, but companies such as Natura Pest Control exterminator can help to permanently rid your home and garden from these unwanted pests.
From a more serious reaction, to swelling, sniffles, sneezing and red watery eyes, allergies are a nuisance, no matter how serious your reaction. Many allergies can develop overnight, so you can’t always be prepared. However, if a family member already has an allergy, then it’s always best to take steps to keep them happy and in good health. From hay fever to animal reactions, wasp stings or even food allergies, these are all factors that can have a detrimental effect on your mood or overall well-being. This year, why not take your health into your own hands and treat your allergies for good? There is a range of holistic and alternative treatments that you can use if you don’t want to take pharmaceutical drugs too. Meaning that you can live your life to the full in no time at all, without worrying when you may next suffer a reaction.
