tips for allergy prevention

Air Conditioning and Allergies To help alleviate problems with pollen, molds and dust mites, air condition your house and car and, if possible, add an air cleaner to your central air conditio Anaphylactic Shock Anaphylactic shock, the most severe allergic reaction, is most commonly associated with bee or fire ant stings. If welts (hives) erupt following a sting, this is a warning flag to seek prompt medical attention. Attic Fans Don't use your attic fan during allergy season. The fan sucks pollen into the house. Avoid Dyes Avoid dyes, especially the ones in toilet paper. Use white to wipe. Bedding and Dust Mites If dust mites give you trouble, seal your mattress, box springs and pillows in allergy-resistant plastic covers available at most discount stores. Carpeting Causes Allergy Problems Allergy experts recommend you dump the carpeting and use throw rugs instead. Since most people enjoy a carpeted home, try the new allergy care carpet treatments now available. Cheap Fungicide Clean humid areas, such as the bathroom and basement, with a fungicide (mold-killer). A cheap and effective one is bleach. Use a solution of 3/4 cup bleach to one gallon of water, let stand 5 minutes and rinse. Choose Antiperspirants Carefully Aluminum chloride, aluminum sulfate and zirconium chlorohydrate in antiperspirants often cause dermatitis, especially after shaving. Try to choose antiperspirants that contain the anti-irritants allantoinate, zinc oxide, magnesium oxide, aluminum hydroxide, or triethanolamine. Cold Compresses for Allergy Relief Are your allergy eyes giving you fit? Try a cold compress for 15-20 minutes. Wet a washcloth with cold water and place over your eyes. Common Allergens and Allergy Symptoms A listing of common allergens: pollen, mold spores, dust mites, animal dander, feathers, foods, medications, and insect stings. Common allergy symptoms: watery, itchy eyes, sneezing, and a constant runny nose. Common Pollens The most common pollens causing allergies include: tree pollens (April - May), grasses (June - July) and ragweed (August - October). Dandruff and Shampoo Dyes Dandruff sufferers may be allergic to the dyes in the shampoo they use. Even dandruff remedy shampoos often contain dyes. Decongestants and Blood Pressure If you are hypertensive, over-the-counter decongestants are a big no-no. Decongestants raise blood pressure and can lead to heart attack or stroke. Dehumidifier and Allergies Keep the humidity in your home below 45%. To measure the humidity level, buy an inexpensive hygrometer available at many discount stores. Driving and Antihistamines Antihistamines often cause drowsiness and should not be taken if driving or operating machinery. Drug Treatment for Allergies The over-the-counter antihistamine diphenhydramine (Benadryl) works well for allergy treatment and has few drug interactions. Be sure to read the label for proper dosage, side effects, etc. and check with your doctor if you have any questions.