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 Rashes, Sniffles, Itches, and More
Understanding Allergies
Does doggie dander make you sneeze? Can freshly cut grass bring tears to your eyes? Are you rashy, itchy, congested, or wheezy?
If so, you may have an allergy.
What's an Allergy?
An allergy results when the body's immune system has an abnormal reaction to a trigger (the allergen). About 50 million Americans are affected by allergies.* Reactions can range from fairly mild, like sneezing or coughing, to life-threatening.
Common allergens include animal dander and saliva, dust mites (actually, their airborne fecal matter), insect stings or bites, certain medications, injected anesthetics or dyes used in medical tests, latex, mold, and pollen. Allergies to particular foods - most often peanuts, eggs, and shellfish - are not unusual. Some individuals react to dairy products, wheat, and other foodstuffs.
The good news is that most people can control their symptoms with a combination of lifestyle changes and medications.
Dealing with Allergies
If you suspect you are suffering from allergies, talk with your health care provider. Simple measures may help pinpoint your particular allergen(s). Then, take steps to prevent or minimize reactions by avoiding the allergen and, if appropriate, using over-the-counter or prescription medications to address specific symptoms. Antihistamines may help with sneezing and wheezing, and decongestants can help combat congestion. Topical treatments, such as cortisone cream or ointment, may help reduce inflammation, rashes, and itching.
When Allergies Are Life-Threatening …
For some individuals, allergic reactions are more than a nuisance. Penicillin, a bee sting, or even a whiff of peanut crumbs can result in life-threatening anaphylaxis, sometimes called anaphylactic shock. Anaphylaxis occurs when the body's immune system overreacts to an allergen, causing a drop in blood pressure and difficulty breathing. It can lead to death if not treated immediately.
It is not unusual for the first encounter with the allergen to produce a mild reaction, but if you are susceptible, subsequent exposures can increase sensitivity to the danger point. Talk with your health care provider if you suspect you may be at risk for a serious allergic reaction.
You may also want to wear a "medic-alert" bracelet or carry a card in your wallet or purse alerting medical personnel of your allergies.
Allergies Are Nothing to Sneeze At
By staying alert to the types of allergens that trigger your allergic reactions, you can help avoid most exposure, prevent or minimize symptoms, and improve your quality of life.
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Preventing Allergic Reactions
If you are allergic to pollen, mold, dust mites, or pet dander, you can help minimize reactions by:
- Filtering the air in your home with a high-efficiency air filter. Clean furnace air filters frequently.
- Prevent mold growth by keeping the humidity below 50%.
- Avoid having pets that trigger your allergies. If you do, keep them out of your bedroom. Have another family member groom and wash them.
- Use special covers for pillows, mattresses, and box springs; and avoid down-filled bedding.
- Clean and vacuum often, and wear a face mask and gloves while housecleaning.
- Choose hardwood, vinyl, or ceramic flooring rather than carpeting.
- Minimize outdoor walks during pollen season.
If you have food allergies, avoid any foods that contain the offending ingredients. This can be a challenge, because although food manufacturers are supposed to clearly label ingredients, they may be inaccurate or there may have been cross-contamination in production. A new law that went into effect January 1, 2006, requires food manufacturers to clearly identify the presence of any of the eight major food allergens, including milk, egg, peanut, tree nut, fish, shellfish, wheat, and soy.*
When eating out, always ask your waiter to confirm that your meal does not contain peanuts, shellfish, or whatever food triggers your allergies.
Finally, if you have had a reaction to a medication in the past, be sure to alert your health care provider to make a note in your medical records.
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