This entry was posted on Monday, September 18th, 2017 and is filed under Blog by AENT Associates
Suffering from allergies can be a miserable experience year-round, but is made even more frustrating by seasonal allergens and pollutants. How do you prevent your allergy symptoms from ruining your day? Here are a few tips to help relieve seasonal allergies.
Know Your Triggers
The first step to defeating your seasonal allergies and ridding yourself of unwanted symptoms is understanding what causes your allergic reactions. There are a number of different potential allergens, though the most common seasonal culprits include weed pollens and mold spores. It’s likely in your best interest to schedule an appointment with an allergy specialist to determine exactly what is causing your symptoms so you can better avoid potential triggers and pursue doctor-recommended treatment options.
Change Your Filters
Your home’s HVAC system plays an important role in controlling the level of allergens throughout your house. If you find that outdoor pollen is following you indoors, or that dust mites are triggering your allergies, make a point to replace your HVAC filter. Most manufacturers recommend you change your filter every other month, though homeowners with pets or particularly susceptible residents might consider switching out their system’s filter on a monthly basis.
Just like your home HVAC, your car has its own particulate filter for the AC system. Old filters become ineffective over time, blowing pollen and pollutants from outside directly into your face while driving. Have a mechanic check the filter whenever your car gets a tune-up.
Over the Counter Treatments
If you can’t avoid the source of your allergy symptoms or have tried other methods, there are many over-the-counter medications that can help control your symptoms and alleviate discomfort. Antihistamines are the most common allergy medication and help reduce stuffy nose, runny nose, sneezing and itching. Some sufferers might consider using corticosteroids to reduce nasal inflammation and clear breathing pathways. Speak with your allergist or physician to determine which medication will work best for you.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy is used to treat disease or similar conditions by creating or suppressing an immune response. Allergen immunotherapy, also known as desensitization or hypo-sensitization, is particularly effective at treating environmental allergies. Allergy shots are the most commonly used, and most effective, form of allergy immunotherapy today. Small amounts of an allergen substance are injected into the skin of a patient’s arm over a period of several months. Over time the body builds up resistance to the substance, reducing allergy symptoms.
Allergy Treatment Specialists in Houston
Allergy & ENT Associates provides specialized care for the diagnosis and management of all types of allergies and hypersensitivities affecting lungs, skin, ears, nose, throat and stomach. Our experienced team of specialists offers a comprehensive spectrum of services and procedures. Contact us today to find the location nearest you.
