How to Avoid a Hypersensitivity Reaction

Did you know that you can decrease your exposure to allergens? It may seem impossible, especially in the case of substances in the air like pollen, mold, and dander. However, there are ways you to avoid contact with allergens and reduce hypersensitivity reactions.

Allergen #1: Dust Mites

Did you know that tiny bugs can live inside beddings, mattresses, carpets, and all upholstered furniture? No matter how obsessive you get over cleaning every nook and cranny in your house, it may prove challenging to get rid of dust mites completely. However, there are ways to limit contact, especially in the bedroom:

• Protect your pillows and mattress with special dust-proof covers.
• Change your sheets frequently. Ideally, once every week.
• Avoid bedding or comforters stuffed with foam rubber.
• Limit the number of stuffed animals and pillows inside your bedroom.
• Vacuum your curtains once every few weeks.

Allergen #2: Pet Dander

Dander is the material shed from the body of animals that have fur, hair, or feathers. Contrary to popular belief, short-haired pets are not any less likely to cause a hypersensitivity reaction than long-haired animals.

If you suffer from allergic reactions due to animals, it is best not to own a pet. If, however, you love animals and cannot imagine life without them, you should:

• At the very least, keep your pet outside of your bedroom.
• Wash your hands immediately after petting.
• Avoid kissing or keeping your pet too close your face (as difficult as it may be).
• Give your pet a good scrub at least once a week to reduce dander.
• Invest in an air purifier.

Allergen #3: Mold

Your house is highly susceptible to developing a mold problem. Mold can grow practically anywhere, thriving in damp basements, bathrooms (especially showers), closets, places where fresh food is stored, houseplants, air conditioners, humidifiers, refrigerator drip trays, garbage pails, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and old foam rubber pillows.

You can control and prevent mold in your home if you:

• Clean bathrooms, kitchens, basements, and other damp areas regularly and keep them well aired.
• Do not use humidifiers.

 Allergen #4: Pollen

Grasses, trees, and weeds produce untraceable pollens that travel through air. When inhaled, they cause seasonal allergy symptoms and trigger asthma. Pollens from trees thrive in the springtime, grasses in the summer, and weeds during fall. Thus, experiencing a serious case of hay fever may last all year long depending on where you live. If possible:

• Keep all windows closed, especially during the day.
• Wear a medical mask whenever outdoors.
• Take a shower and wear fresh clothing after working outdoors.

Allergen #5: Cockroaches

The mere droppings of cockroaches can result in allergies and trigger asthma. To reduce your exposure, the following steps must be taken:

• Promptly wash all dishes after eating and do not leave traces of food.
• Seal your leftovers in containers.
• Take out the trash more regularly.
• Set roach traps.
• Seal all cracks in your home to prevent infestation.

A Final Word

Allergy attacks can be frightening, sudden, uncomfortable, and sometimes life-threatening. When you feel trapped by your allergies — don’t lose hope! You can work with your doctor to create the best allergy management plan for you, and partner it with these simple tips to minimize the detrimental effects of mild to severe allergies.