Most common allergies and how to avoid them
Allergies also known as allergic diseases are a number of conditions caused by hypersensibility of the immune system. They occur when the immune system reacts to a substance.
When a patient has an allergic reaction, the immune system makes antibodies that identify a particular allergen as harmful. When the patient comes into contact with the allergen, the immune system’s reaction inflames the skin, airways, digestive system, or sinuses.
Allergies and their preventions
1.- Pollen
A very fine dust-like substance that is shed by trees, grass, and weeds. It is released into the surrounding atmosphere. Pollen usually figures among the top allergy triggers.
Symptoms:
- Red and watery eyes
- Runny nose
- Cough
- Nasal Congestion
Prevention:
- Pollen grains can get stuck on clothing and end up at home, change out of the clothes you wore outside as soon as you get back home.
- Limit the entry of pollen inside your home, keep the windows and doors shut.
- Try to stay indoors when the pollen count is high, especially if it is hot and windy outside.
2.- House dust mites
Many people are affected by dust mite allergies, this is due to they can become deeply embedded at home. Dust mites can survive in almost any climate or altitude, however, they flourish in the warm.
Symptoms:
- Stuffy nose
- Itchy skin
- Cough
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- Itchy nose, mouth, or throat
- Postnasal drip
Prevention:
- Cover your nose and mouth with a mask during house cleaning.
- Clean the house regularly to clear out the mites.
- Avoid carpeting.
3.- Food
There are allergies caused by food. This happens because the body confuses it to be a dietary substance. Food allergies can be severe and life-threatening.
Symptoms:
- Abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting.
- Hives, itching, or eczema.
- Tingling or itching in the mouth.
- Wheezing, nasal congestion, or trouble breathing.
- Dizziness, fainting, or lightheadedness.
- Swelling of face, lips, throat, tongue, and other parts of the body.
Prevention:
- Check the ingredients when shopping for food or ordering food.
- In case of knowing a food allergy, carry epinephrine for emergencies.
4.- Mold
Mold can grow anywhere and we usually can’t see it, however, even if it’s invisible to the naked eye, people allergic to this fungus can have a tough time avoiding it.
Symptoms:
- Sneezing
- Itching
- Runny nose
- Congestion
- Scaling skin
Prevention:
- Remove damp firewood or moldy leaves from the backyard.
- Leaky pipes or roof shingles should be promptly fixed.
- In the case of suspecting the presence of mold call a professional to inspect and clean.
- Ventilate and dry out the areas that tend to remain damp.
5.- Insect sting
People allergic to insect stings have more severe reactions that can cause anaphylaxis, which requires specific immunotherapy to prevent further severe reactions.
Symptoms:
- Redness
- Swelling
- Itching
- Hives
- Difficulty breathing
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- In the case of a severe reaction, you can have two or more symptoms.
Prevention:
- Stay away from areas infested by insects.
- Wear protective clothing and footwear to cover up exposed skin when venturing outdoors.
- Carry epinephrine at all times to treat anaphylaxis.
In addition to all ways to prevent allergies, it is important to consult a doctor to have a better recommendation to prevent them and also to treat them.
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