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When you're suffering from full-blown nasal allergy symptoms,
all you want is relief. There are several ways to reduce nasal allergy symptoms.
In this day and age, you shouldn't have to suffer through allergy seasons.
avoidance
Avoiding substances that trigger your allergies is the most effective way to
eliminate allergy symptoms. However, if you’re allergic to mold or pollen, complete
avoidance is almost impossible. Doctors usually do not suggest moving to an
area with less pollen or mold growth because you could develop allergies to
different substances in your new environment. Since relocating isn’t a sure-fire
solution, here are a few ways you can reduce exposure to the particles that
irritate your allergies.
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Try not to go outside when pollen
counts are high in your area.
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Dust frequently and thoroughly with a damp cloth.
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Remove wall-to-wall carpeting in your bedroom—dust
mites love to live in carpet, and they're virtually impossible to remove once
they've settled in.
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Vacuum floors and furniture often.
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Enclose your mattress, box spring, and pillows in plastic covers to keep
dust mites out.
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Wash sheets, bedding, and draperies in very hot water.
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Use bleach or anti-mildew sprays in mold-prone areas.
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Avoid perfumes.
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Make your home smoke-free.
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If you have a pet, keep it out of your bedroom. Bathe your pet often.
And wash your hands after handling a pet.
medications
If you're still having allergy problems, even when you're trying
to avoid your triggers, it’s probably time to see your healthcare professional
about allergy medications. Most likely, your healthcare professional will suggest
one or a combination of the following treatments.
view
the treatment chart
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antihistamines block the effects
of histamine, which is one of the substances your body releases when reacting
to allergens. Antihistamines help relieve sneezing and itchy, runny nose and
eye symptoms, but they are less effective in relieving congestion.
- decongestants shrink inflamed nasal tissues. By opening up your
air passages, they relieve pressure in the sinuses. Decongestants offer
relief from nasal congestion after it has begun and are effective for temporary
relief. If nasal decongestant sprays are used for more than 3 to 5 consecutive
days, symptoms can become worse as the medication wears off.
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anti-inflammatory
nasal sprays reduce nasal inflammation, which contributes to your
nasal symptoms. Unlike oral antihistamines and decongestants that work throughout
the body, anti-inflammatory sprays work where you need them most – in your
nose. They are most effective when you use them regularly to manage symptoms
of a stuffy, sneezy, itchy, runny nose.
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allergy shots can make your body less sensitive to allergens over
time. Allergy shots are injections of substances to which you’re allergic.
Some people experience a significant reduction of symptoms 12 months after
they’ve started regular allergy shots. You have to visit your doctor regularly
to receive the shots.
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