How to Control Allergies

Allergies are annoying and potentially dangerous immunological reactions to normally benign substances in the environment. Allergies are the result of a hypersensitive immune system and can result in rashes, sneezing and even asthma or acute respiratory problems. Removal of allergy-inducing substances, otherwise known as allergens, is the key to controlling allergies.

Indoors

• Isolate yourself from pets. If your allergies go away, then the problem is that you are allergic to your pets, or more specifically their dander. Limiting time spent around your pet can help control your allergic reactions.


• Regularly vacuum your carpets. This will help eliminate pet dander, dust or pollen. Many allergens can be tracked into your house by shoes or blown in by the wind through open windows. Allergens can then settle on your carpet and be disturbed by foot traffic. If you haven't cleaned your carpet in a while, try steam cleaning.


• Wash your drapes periodically. Dust gathers on the fabric and can cause allergic reactions whenever the drapes are disturbed and the dust flies into the air.


• Change your air filters regularly. Dust, pollen and other substances can blow through your air conditioning system and spread throughout the home to aggravate your allergies. Another option is to install HEPA filters which trap allergens in their filters.


• Check with your local weather service or weather.com for local pollen levels and the local air quality. Close your windows during days when the pollen count is high.

Outdoors

• Keep your car windows rolled up when the pollen count is high. Use your air conditioning to keep cool.


• Avoid mowing the lawn during days when the pollen count is high. Wear a mask to filter the air whenever you mow the lawn.


• Don't hang clothes out to dry during high pollen days.

Allergy Relief

• Use cayenne pepper capsules to clear your sinuses if your allergies are causing your congestion. Cayenne pepper clears nasal pathways and breaks up mucus.


• Drink Nettle herb tea to calm your allergic responses. Nettle tea is a natural anti-histamine and is good for suppressing watery eyes, itching and sneezing.


• Use over-the-counter allergy medications. There are several types of OTC allergy medicines that are available in different forms such as eye drops, pills, creams and nasal sprays. Depending on your specific allergy you may need to buy an antihistamine or decongestant.


• See your doctor if OTC medications are not enough to resolve your allergy symptoms. Your doctor may prescribe a corticosteroid or give you an allergy shot.