October 3, 2023

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5 Ways to Manage Respiratory Allergies

Allergies are a nuisance and can extensively confine your everyday life and activities. They are caused by various allergens, including pollen, dust, mold, animal dander, and insect bites, to name a few. Respiratory allergy symptoms include sneezing, nasal congestion, nose, and throat itching, wheezing, and coughing, to name a few. If you suffer from Marrero allergies and are unsure of the cause, it is advisable to see a specialist to identify the cause and provide guidance on the appropriate treatment. Here are ways you can manage allergies:

1.      Stay away from triggers

If you can, avoid dust and pollen, among other allergens. Avoiding them can help minimize allergic attacks. You can spend much time indoors and wear a mask to reduce contact with an allergen during seasons when the allergen concentration is high. Today, you can even work at home full-time. Also, ensure your house and car are dust-free. You can also shower and change clothes immediately after getting home to avoid sticking pollen or dust.

2.      Use nasal irrigation techniques

Cleaning the sinuses with squirt bottles, sprays, nebulizers, neti pots, or pumps can ease allergies. But, utilizing these devices inappropriately can cause infections. So, ensure you read the use directions carefully and follow them. If you are uncomfortable or unsure about handling a particular device, speak to an allergist.

3.      Allergy medication

If you have a seasonal allergy, it’s wise to take medication. It helps in building up an allergy-fighting mechanism in the body. With the guidance of an allergy specialist, you can find the proper medication and the ultimate start window.

4.      Allergy shots

If your allergies are not well controlled with avoidance and medications, you may need to consider allergy shots. Allergy shots, also known as immunotherapy, involve exposing you to small amounts of the allergen over time. It helps your body to tolerate the allergen and can reduce your allergy symptoms. Don’t just dive into shots; talk to an allergist to help determine if they are right for you.

5.      Keep your home clean

Thoroughly clean your home indoors and outdoors to create a safer environment. Vacuum the carpets and rugs, mop the floors regularly, and dust all surfaces, including furniture. Get rid of the items that accumulate dust, like curtains, stuffed animals, and bookshelves, to mention a few.

You can also use dustproof covers for pillows and mattresses in the bedroom to keep dust mites away. You will notice that it is easy to breathe and allergy symptoms severity lessen, all while keeping your home more aesthetically pleasing. As you strive to develop a safer home, you can also install an air purifier to help remove allergens from the air.

Allergic attacks can be overwhelming, especially if the symptoms are severe. While some allergies are complex and demand personalized treatment, you have a lot in your control that can help mitigate the risks. Avoidance is the best strategy, and working with an allergy expert can help you devise a practical approach. Call ENT of New Orleans today for more information on allergies.

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