Allergy Shots

Also called desensitization or immunotherapy, these are usually reserved for severe allergies that can’t be controlled adequately with medication. Periodic injections of increasing amounts of the allergenic extract are given over a long period, usually one to three years. The objective is to build up a natural tolerance to the allergens, thereby reducing symptoms and the need for medications.

Self Treatment

Anyone who has allergies knows that avoidance is the main line of defense against attacks For example, seasonal hay fever can be minimized by staying indoor When pollen counts are height and investing in, air conditioners for both horne and car. If outdoor work is essential, wearing disposable pollen mask and eye goggles is a good idea. People with numerous allergies often react to animal dander. If you can’t bear to par with a pet, try to keep it outdoors, or at least put of your bedroom. Some animals, such as poodles and rex cats, are said to be less allergenic than others. Recent studies also indicate that female cats are less allergenic than males Bathing a cat weekly with plain water may reduce its allergy provoking dander. In any event, before acquiring a pet, you should spend some time with it so you can make sure it does not trigger an allergic reaction.

Allergy Shots

Following are additional actions that help to reduce exposure to common household allergens:

  • Use mold inhibiting paint rather than wallpaper, which promotes mold growth.
  • Consider discarding rugs, deeply upholstered furniture, and other dust catching furnishings in favor of wood or tile floors and wood furniture.
  • Keep the bedroom free of clutter and, if possible, avoid using it as a study or workplace. Objects with crevices or soft, plush surfaces that collect dust should be removed .
  • Vacuum mattresses regularly and encase them in airtight plastic covers.
  • Buy pillows and comforters that are filled with synthetic fibers rather than kapok or feathers.
  • Avoid heavy drapes and venetian blinds notorious dust catchers. Use window shades instead. If you do use curtains, launder them frequently.
  • Wear a dust mask when vacuuming or dusting. Better still, have someone else do these tasks for you when you are away from the house.
  • Keep your bedroom window closed, and use air conditioning, which cleans, cools, and dries the air.
  • Don’t hang laundry (especially sheets) out to dry allergy provoking pollens and molds may collect on them.
  • If your child has allergies, avoid giving him stuffed toys. Many of these contain kapok or other fibers that are highly allergenic.
  • Make sure that filters on air conditioners and humidifiers are cleaned or changed regularly.
  • Treat damp areas, such as the basement and garage, with antimildew spray and use space heaters for additional drying.

Other Causes of Allergic Symptoms

Chronic sinus infections can cause nasal congestion and other symptoms similar to those of allergies. Itchiness and chronic hives may be caused by drug reactions. Less commonly, liver disorders or lymphatic cancer can pro­duce unexplained itchiness. The rash and itching of psoriasis may also be mistaken for an allergic reaction.