Allergies

Red eyes, sneezing, runny nose – sound familiar?

Theres a good chance it does. Research shows allergies affect roughly 50 million people in North America. Allergies -- caused when the immune system overreacts to foreign substances that come in contact with the body – can cause a variety of unpleasant symptoms in the eyes, nose, lungs, skin and stomach. Allergic reactions in some people may be as minor as puffy eyes or a runny nose. In others, allergic reactions can be intense, sudden and lethal.

A variety of substances can trigger allergic reactions, but the most common contributors are pollens, mold spores, food, pet dander and dust mites. Some people suffer from allergic reactions at an extremely young age, while other people take years to develop allergies.

Allergy treatment

Allergies can make life uncomfortable for those who go without treatment. Fortunately, treatments are available for even people with severe allergy problems, and most of the time treatment is very successful. The three main types of allergy treatments are avoidance, medication and immunotherapy.

Avoidance

The concept of avoidance is simple; the allergic person stays away from substances that trigger allergic reactions. Examples include avoiding animals such as dogs or cats, or eliminating certain types of foods – such as nuts or dairy products – from a persons diet.

People who are extremely allergic to certain substances may carry emergency medication in the event of an unexpected reaction. Still, avoidance is the best way for these patients to cope with their allergic tendencies.

Allergy medication

Allergy medication is the simplest treatment option.

Medication is the first line of defense against allergy symptoms. Several medications are available to treat common allergy symptoms such as itchiness, sinus congestion, shortness of breath and swelling. Some medications are sold over-the-counter, while others require a doctors prescription. Allergy medications are the best way for treating symptoms fast.

Types of allergy medications

The basic types of allergy medications include antihistamines, decongestants, bronchodilators, anti-inflammatory medications and anti-leukotrienes. Each type of medication relieves a different set of allergy symptoms.

• Antihistamines: These medications prevent hay fever and other allergies by preventing the effects of histamine, a substance produced when the body has an allergic reaction.
• Decongestants: Decongestant medications are used to treat stuffy noses, headaches and other symptoms associated with allergies and common colds. These medications clear nasal congestion by causing blood vessels to narrow.
• Bronchodilators: Bronchodilators are used to treat asthma or respiratory symptoms from allergies. They are intended to help open up the lungs. They relieve symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing and difficulty in breathing.
• Anti-Inflammatory Medication: These medications reduce inflammation in the airway, which makes breathing easier for people whove had allergic reactions.
• Anti-Leukotrienes: Anti-leukotrienes are newer medications also designed to relieve symptoms associated with asthma. These medications help open up the lungs and prevent fluid buildup in the lungs.

Remember to consult your doctor before considering using a new allergy medication.

Allergy immunotherapy and shots

Flu shots work by injecting patients with significantly weakened dosages of flu virus. The bodys natural defense system destroys the virus, thus developing immunity to that strain of the flu.

• Immunotherapy, or allergy shot treatment, works in the same way as flu shots. The allergy shots contains an “allergy extract,” which is a mixture of pollens, mold spores, dander and dust mites that cause aggravate allergies. The shot is administered in the back of the arm, usually either once or twice a week, with dosages increased slightly for each shot. After awhile, the amount of allergy extract becomes consistent from shot to shot, and the frequency of shots is reduced.
• Immunotherapy can be continued for years and has shown to benefit 80 to 90 percent of children who receive the treatment. Most patients dont show significant signs of improvement until undergoing the treatment for 12 to 18 months. However, some children show improved symptoms in as little as six months.
• Immunotherapy is also referred to as desensitization or hyposensitization.
• Immunotherapy is not a lone solution

The downside to immunotherapy is that it takes time to be effective. In the meantime, children who are undergoing immunotherapy will still need allergy medications to help relieve immediate symptoms. Remember to always speak with a doctor before starting your child on a new medication.

Home Allergy Remedies

Do you suffer from allergies? If so, consider following these tips to reduce your exposure to allergens in your home:

• Clear your living space: The more stuff you have laying around, the more stuff there is to collect dust and allergens. Keeping your living space free of clutter will improve your air quality and help alleviate your allergic symptoms.
• Wash clothes and linens in hot water: Water heated to at least 130 degrees F will kill dust mites, ensuring that your bedding and clothing will be more allergen free.
• When at risk, wear a mask: Dont wear a facemask out to the mall; but if youre going to vacuum or scoop up your childs laundry, a facemask will filter out dust, mites and other allergens that could cause you to have a reaction.
• Use allergen-proof bedding covers: Allergy-supply companies sell allergen-free covers for pillows, mattresses and box springs. The covers are woven tight enough to prevent passage by dust mites, meaning you can sleep with an extra layer of protection.
• Invest in a dehumidifier: Dust mites thrive in damp environments, so keeping your air dry will help keep your home free of allergens.
• Keep animals out of your bedroom: Pets spread dander in every room theyre allowed to occupy. Keep your room clean by prohibiting your pet from entering. That way, youll always be able to rest in a clean room.