Allergy Relief

Allergens are environmental substances such as dust, and pollen. An allergen triggers an allergic reaction in a person by releasing histamines and other natural chemicals. The human body’s antibody reaction to these chemicals may cause allergic symptoms such as watery eyes, stuffy nose and rashes.

Sneezing and a runny nose are caused by antihistamines that reach the nose. When antihistamines reach the lungs, it may cause asthma, bronchial spasms or other respiratory complications. Antihistamines on your skin may cause itching, rashes and hives. Antihistamines in your stomach may cause nausea.

Allergies are accumulative, meaning that repetitive exposure to allergens makes the condition worse. It is important to eliminate or reduce exposure to allergens as much as possible to avoid accumulative reactions.

Common Allergies

1. Pollen Allergies -- Pollen allergies are air borne allergies that may be set off by environmental factors such as grass and flowers.

2. Pet Allergies - Pet allergies are asthma-ike allergy symptoms that may be triggered by animal dander, hair and old skin.

3. Dust Mite Allergies - Dust mite allergies are triggered by small bugs that settle in old cloth-like material including beds, clothes, dust bunnies, carpets, etc.

4. Food Allergies - Food allergies are caused by food; examples of these are nuts, shrimps and straw berries.

5. Mold Allergies - Mold allergies are triggered by fungi and mold.

There are a variety of drugs that can help in relieving allergy symptoms, whichh include:

1. Nasal Corticosteroids - Nasal corticosteroids are taken through the respiratory system by inhaling or spraying into the nose. Corticosteroids are usually taken once daily.

2. Decongestants - Decongestants come as a nasal spray or in tablet form. They are commonly taken with antihistamines to provide decongestant action.

3. Oral Antihistamines - Oral antihistamines are medications that counteract histamine production and action to prevent and relieve allergy symptoms.

4. Non-steroidal Nasal Sprays - Non-steroidal nasal sprays are preventative medications that should be taken before an allergic reaction occurs.

An additional treatment for the prevention of allergic rhinitis (inflammation of the nose and mucus membrane) symptoms is immunotherapy (allergy shots). Allergy sufferers who do not respond well to prescription or over the counter drugs listed above may undergo immunotherapy. This option is also available to people who frequently suffer from rhinitis.

During immunotherapy, patients receive a series of injections that contain small doses of the allergens that are causing the allergy symptoms. Gradually, the doses are increased over a period of 3 to 5 years in order for the body to develop a natural resistance to the injected allergens.

First Aid for Severe Allergic Reactions

1. Assess the situation and seek prompt medical assistance.

2. Place the affected person in a comfortable breathing position to help with breathing.

3. People who suffer from serious allergies don’t usually leave home without their medication. If the affected person has his medication, assist him in taking the prescribed dosage.

4. Remain with the affected person and wait for medical assistance to arrive.

Medication is only part of a process towards allergy relief. It is important to stay well informed and up to date to keep safe.