“Allergies: Types, Treatments and Natural Remedies!"

Uncover Your Allergy Triggers: Nearly 20% of Americans have allergies. Allergies are an abnormal response of your immune system. Your body's defenses react to a usually harmless substance, such as pollen, animal dander, or food. Almost anything can trigger an allergic reaction, which can range from mild and annoying to sudden and life-threatening. Here are 10 of the most common triggers.

Pollen: Pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds can trigger hay fever or seasonal allergies. You might have symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, and itchy, watery eyes. Treatments include over-the-counter products, prescription drugs, and allergy shots. Prevent symptoms by staying inside on windy days when pollen counts are high, closing windows, and running the air conditioning.

Animal Dander: Proteins secreted by oil glands in an animal's skin and present in their saliva can cause allergic reactions for some people. The allergy can take two or more years to develop and symptoms may not go away until months after being away from the animal. If your pet is causing allergies, make your bedroom a pet-free zone, avoid carpets, and wash him regularly. A HEPA filter and frequent vacuuming may also help. Allergy shots may be beneficial.

Dust Mites: Dust mites are microscopic organisms that live in house dust. They thrive in high humidity and feed on the dead skin cells of people and pets, as well as on pollen, bacteria, and fungi. Help prevent dust mite allergies by covering mattresses, pillows, and box springs, using hypoallergenic pillows, washing sheets weekly in hot water, and keeping the house free of dust collecting-items such as stuffed animals, curtains, and carpet.

Insect Stings: People who are allergic to stings can have a severe or even life-threatening reaction. Symptoms include extensive swelling and redness from the sting or bite that may last a week or more, nausea, fatigue, and low-grade fever. In rare cases when insect bites cause a severe reaction (anaphylaxis), symptoms may include difficulty breathing, swelling around the face, throat, or mouth, racing pulse, an itchy rash or hives, dizziness, or a sharp drop in blood pressure. If you're severely allergic, you should get epinephrine immediately after a sting. Allergy shots are recommended to prevent anaphylaxis for some stings.

Molds: Molds make allergens, irritants, and in some cases, potentially toxic substances. Inhaling or touching mold or mold spores may cause allergic reactions in some people. There are many types of mold. They all need moisture to grow. They can be found in damp areas such as basements or bathrooms, as well as in grass or mulch. Avoid activities that trigger symptoms, such as raking leaves. Ventilate moist areas in your home.

Food: Milk, shellfish, eggs, and nuts are among the most common foods that cause allergies. An allergic reaction usually happens within minutes of eating the offending food. Symptoms, which can include breathing problems, hives, vomiting, diarrhea, and swelling around the mouth, can be severe. Avoid all foods that you are allergic to. If you're exposed to them, you may need an epinephrine injection.

Latex: Latex in gloves, condoms, and some medical devices can trigger a latex allergy. Symptoms include skin rash, eye irritation, runny nose, sneezing, wheezing, and skin or nose itching. Allergic reactions can range from skin redness and itching to anaphylaxis, a serious reaction which can cause difficulty breathing, and hives. If you're allergic, wear a MedicAlert bracelet and carry an epinephrine kit.

Medication: Symptoms of allergies to medications, such as penicillin or aspirin, can range from mild to life-threatening and can include hives, itchy eyes, congestion, and swelling in the face, mouth and throat. It's best to avoid the drug altogether. But if you're exposed, your doctor may recommend treating mild symptoms with antihistamines or steroids. For severe allergy symptoms, you may need epinephrine.

Fragrance: Fragrances found in products like perfumes, scented candles, laundry detergent, and cosmetics can cause mild to severe health problems. For most people, symptoms ease up once the scent is gone. For some, repeated exposures cause more symptoms that happen more often and last longer. There’s some question whether fragrance reactions are a true allergy or simply your body's response to an irritant.

Cockroaches: Ick! Not only are cockroaches creepy, but a protein in their droppings can be a troublesome allergen. It can be difficult to get rid of cockroaches from your home, especially in a warm climate, or if you live in an apartment building where bugs can pass back and forth between neighbors. Treat for roaches by using pesticides, keeping a clean kitchen, and repairing cracks and holes in floors, walls, and windows to stop them from entering your home.

Reviewed by Hansa D. Bhargava, MD on September 14, 2012

SOURCES:

Aerias Air Quality Sciences IAQ Resource Center.
American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology web site.
American Academy of Dermatology web site.
American Academy of Family Physicians web site.
American Academy of Ophthalmology web site.
American Academy of Pediatrics web site.
Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America web site.
Children's Hospital Boston.
Halken, S., Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, January 2003.
Johns Hopkins web site.
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease web site.
The Food Allergy Initiative.
University of Kentucky College of Agriculture.

“10 SIGNS YOUR ALLERGIES ARE OUT OF CONTROL!”

Sign #1: The Allergic Salute: You vacuum with a HEPA filter. You stay indoors when the pollen count is high. You take medications as directed. But do you really have allergy symptoms under control? If you're constantly doing the "allergic salute," the answer is probably no. This gesture -- a swipe at the tip of an itchy, runny nose -- is especially common in children.

Sign #2: Raccoon Eyes: Dark circles under watery eyes are another sign of allergies. You can get circles when you're always rubbing itchy eyes. Fortunately, itching, tearing, sneezing, and a runny nose can all be relieved with antihistamines. If you already take this type of medication without success, check with your doctor about changing your treatment plan.

Sign #3: Chronic Congestion: A stuffy nose usually lasts a week or two when a cold or flu is to blame. If congestion goes on and on, allergies are a more likely suspect. During an allergic reaction, the lining of your nasal passages may swell and produce extra mucus. This can cause sinus pressure and headaches. Decongestants can give you short-term relief. For a long-term plan of action, consider seeing an allergist.

Sign #4: Wheezing: Wheezing is often linked with asthma, but it can also be a sign of a serious allergic reaction. The characteristic whistling sound happens when air passes through narrowed airways. In severe cases, wheezing needs emergency care. You should be checked by your doctor if you have wheezing related to allergies.

Sign #5: Itchy Skin: Itching may just be a sign of dry skin. But when it doesn't stop, and especially when it comes with a rash, eczema may be to blame. Eczema is a type of skin reaction that's common in people with allergies. Triggers may include soap or detergent, pet dander, and rough materials. Antihistamines, moisturizers, and hydrocortisone cream can help soothe flares. For severe cases, prescription medications are available.

Sign #6: Hives: Hives are hard to miss. These pale red welts tend to itch, and they can last from several hours to several days. Often, they're caused by an allergic reaction to some type of food, medication, or insect sting. Antihistamines usually give you immediate relief. Steroids may be needed in some cases. But the best solution is to find and avoid the trigger.

Sign #7: Insomnia: Itching, congestion, post-nasal drip, sinus pain -- and other allergy-related symptoms can be tough on sleep. Symptoms like coughing or wheezing may wake you up, and a stuffed nose may make it hard to fall asleep. Some allergy drugs can also disrupt a good night's sleep. Trouble sleeping is one sign that it may be time to ask your doctor about changing how you treat allergies.

Sign #8: Trouble Concentrating: You may find it hard to concentrate when your eyes are tearing, your nose is dripping, and you've been up all night. Plus, some over-the-counter antihistamines may make you feel foggy. If you find work, home life, or relationships are suffering because of allergies, tell your doctor. It may be time to discuss treatment options.

Sign #9: Fatigue: Allergies can deal a triple-whammy to your energy level. First, symptoms can affect the quality of sleep. Second, allergies cause the immune system to constantly overreact, which can cause fatigue. Third, some antihistamines cause drowsiness. Some newer antihistamines or other medications may be less likely to cause drowsiness. Ask your pharmacist for help.

Sign #10: Depression: Do you feel blue whenever allergies flare? Some research points to a connection between allergies and mood changes. The National Institute of Mental Health is studying the link between seasonal allergies and depression. Although we can't prove that allergies cause people to feel depressed, there are effective treatments for depression. Be sure to let your doctor know if you feel down.

Reviewed by Melinda Ratini, DO, MS on April 15, 2014

SOURCES:
All About Vision: "How to Get Rid of Puffy Eyes and Dark Circles."

American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology: "All About Hives (Urticaria)," "Allergic Diseases and Cognitive Impairment."

Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America: "Asthma Overview."

Children's Hospital Boston: "Allergic Rhinitis."

Cleveland Clinic: "Over-the-Counter: Choosing the Right Allergy Medications."

FamilyDoctor.org: "Allergic Rhinitis - Antihistamines."

National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health: "Examining the Link Between Depression and Seasonal Allergies."

National Sleep Foundation: "Year-Round and Seasonal Allergies."

TeensHealth: "Eczema."

“12 NATURAL WAYS TO DEFEAT ALLERGIES”

Shut Out Breezes: Keeping indoor air free of your allergy triggers can help ease nasal symptoms. Installing special air filters in your furnace and air conditioning systems can remove 90% to 95% of particles from your indoor air. Closing doors and windows when outdoor pollen counts are high also can help keep pollen and other outdoor allergens out of your home.

Consider Alternative Therapies: There's evidence that some supplements help nasal allergies. Butterbur is one of the most promising and well-researched. Studies suggest that butterbur -- specifically a butterbur extract called Ze 339 -- works as well as antihistamines. Other studies show plant-based phleum pratense and pycnogenol may be helpful, too.

Wash Away Allergens: Each time you walk into your home, you bring small pieces of the outside world with you. After being outdoors, your clothes, shoes, hair, and skin are covered with tiny particles from everywhere you’ve been. Taking a shower and changing your clothes will help wash away any allergens. Leaving your shoes at the door will help keep you from tracking allergens through your home.

Wear a Mask: A mask can prevent allergens from getting into your airways when you can’t avoid certain allergy triggers, like when you’re mowing, raking, or vacuuming. An N95 respirator mask -- available at most drugstores and medical supply stores -- will block 95% of small particles, such as pollen and other allergens.

Eat a Healthy Diet: One study found that children who ate a diet rich in fresh vegetables, fruits, and nuts -- particularly grapes, apples, oranges, and tomatoes -- had fewer allergy symptoms. Researchers are still trying to figure out the connection between diet and nasal allergies, but eating a healthy diet is known to do the body a world of good in general. Try adding at least one fresh fruit and vegetable to every meal.  

Use a Nasal Rinse: A nasal rinse cleans mucus from your nose and can help relieve nasal allergy symptoms. It also can rinse away bacteria, thin mucus, and help decrease postnasal drip. Buy a rinse kit or make one using a neti pot or a nasal bulb. Mix 1/2 teaspoon salt with a pinch of baking soda in 8 ounces of warm distilled or sterilized water. Leaning over a sink, gently flush one nostril at a time.

Drink More Fluids: If you’re feeling congested or have postnasal drip from your allergies, try drinking more water, juice, or other fluids. Drinking extra liquid can help thin the mucus in your nasal passages and may give you some relief. Hot fluids -- such as teas, broth, or soup -- may be especially soothing because they add the benefits of steam.

Learn How to Clean Safely: Keeping your home clean is one of the best ways to avoid indoor allergens. But cleaning with harsh chemicals can irritate your nasal passages and aggravate your allergy symptoms. Try cleaning with ordinary household products like vinegar or baking soda. And use a vacuum cleaner that has a HEPA filter to trap allergens. If your allergies are severe, consider having someone else do the cleaning.

Try Some Steam: Inhaling steam is a simple way to relieve nasal congestion and can ease breathing when you have allergies. Sit over a hot bowl or sink full of water and place a towel over your head to trap the steam. Or sit in the bathroom with a hot shower running. Use steam several times a day to relieve symptoms. 

Avoid Cigarette Smoke, Other Fumes: Cigarette smoke can aggravate your allergy symptoms, worsening your running, itchy, stuffy nose and watery eyes. If you smoke, quit, and ask others in your household to stop smoking, too. Try to avoid places where people smoke, opting for smoke-free restaurants, nightclubs, and hotel rooms. Avoid other fumes that can worsen symptoms, like aerosol sprays and smoke from wood-burning fireplaces.

Consider Acupuncture: Acupuncture may offer some relief to people who have allergies. It hasn't been widely studied, and the way it affects allergic rhinitis is still unclear. But a few studies have shown that acupuncture may help reduce nasal allergies. If you want to try acupuncture, talk to your doctor about whether it might help your allergies.

Know Your Triggers: It may sound simple, but to avoid your triggers, you first need to know what they are. "I've heard of people getting rid of their beloved pet and then learning the pet wasn't causing the allergy," says Louisville pediatric allergist James Sublett, MD. Make an appointment with an allergist for an allergy skin test to help pinpoint your triggers.

Reviewed by Michael W. Smith, MD on July 15, 2013

SOURCES:

American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology.
American Academy of Otolaryngology.
Brinkhaus, B. Annals of Internal Medicine, February 2013.
EPA.
Chatzi, L. Thorax, August 2007.
Lee, D. Clinical & Experimental Allergy, April 2004.
Medical News Today.
National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: "Seasonal Allergies and Complementary Health Practices: What the Science Says."
National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health.
National Jewish Health.
Natural Therapeutics Comprehensive Database: "Allergic Rhinitis."
Office of Dietary Supplements.
James Sublett, MD, section chief of pediatric allergy, University of Louisville School of Medicine.
University of Maryland Medical Center.
University of Rochester Health Service.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Wilson, D. Phytotherapy Research, August 2010.
Xiu-Min Li, MD, professor of pediatrics; director, Center for Chinese Herbal Therapy for Allergy and Asthma, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York.

Much Love, Dr.Shermaine #InformativeRead #PleaseShare #HealthyBodySoulAndSpirit #IWantYou2Live

"It's Not Selfish to Love Yourself, Take Care of Yourself and to Make Your Happiness a Priority. It's a Necessity." (Mandy Hale)

"Self-Care is Not Selfish. You Cannot Serve From an Empty Vessel." (Eleanor Brown)

The contents of the WebMD and Self-Care With Dr. Shermaine Sites, such as text, graphics, images, and other material contained on the WebMD and Self-Care With Dr. Shermaine Sites ("Content") are for informational purposes only. The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on the WebMD and Self-Care With Dr. Shermaine Sites!

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately. WebMD and Self-Care With Dr. Shermaine does not recommend or endorse any specific tests, physicians, products, procedures, opinions, or other information that may be mentioned on the Sites. Reliance on any information provided by WebMD, WebMD employees, others appearing on the Site at the invitation of WebMD, and Self-Care With Dr. Shermaine or other visitors to the Sites is solely at your own risk.