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Tips for avoiding common allergens
| Health tips: Allergy versus a cold | | | Dear Reader,
If you tend to get "colds" that develop suddenly and occur at about the same time every year, it’s possible that you actually have a seasonal allergy.
Although colds and seasonal allergies may share some of the same symptoms, they are very different conditions. Common colds are caused by viruses, while seasonal allergies are immune system responses that are triggered by exposure to allergens such as:
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Pollen. Spring, summer and fall are the pollen-producing seasons in many climates. Airborne particles come from trees, grasses and weeds.
Tips: Rinse out your sinuses with a saline solution. This often improves sinus congestion and hay fever symptoms. Shower and change clothes upon entering your home after outdoor exposure. Keep windows and doors closed during allergy seasons, and use an air conditioner with an allergy-grade filter.
Dust mites and molds. Dust mites are microscopic insects found in house dust and can cause year-round allergy symptoms. Outdoor molds produce spores mostly in summer and early fall and year-round in subtropical and tropical climates. Indoor molds shed spores all year long.
Tips: Clean your home at least once a week to prevent dust build up, and wear a mask while cleaning. Use dust proof or allergen-blocking pillow cases and covers, and wash your bedding and pillowcases in hot water. Consider using a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) furnace filter, and change it monthly.
Pet dander. Dogs and especially cats are the most common animals to cause allergic reactions. The animal’s dander (skin flakes), saliva, urine and sometimes hair are the main culprits.
Tips: Avoid pets with fur or feathers, or look into hypoallergenic breeds. If you choose to keep a furry pet, keep it out of the bedroom and in an area of the home that's easily cleaned. Bathe pets weekly.
See your doctor if you find your allergies aren't easily controlled by these steps. A number of prescription medications are available that can lessen or prevent your concerns.
Yours in good health,
Dan Harke, Publisher Mayo Clinic Press |
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