How To

How to Fight Allergies

By eHow Health Editor
Rate: (14 Ratings)

The best way to fight allergies and their symptoms, including stuffy nose, watery eyes, sinus pressure or rashes, is to figure out the cause and avoid it as best you can. Follow these steps to easy breathing and clear skin.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  1. Step 1

    Get tested for allergies by your doctor, or use the process of elimination to pinpoint your triggers. The most common allergens are pollen, mold, dust mites, animals, medications and certain foods.

  2. Step 2

    Identify the allergen(s) as specifically as possible.

  3. Step 3

    Keep your windows closed and stay indoors as much as you can if seasonal pollen is a problem. Consider a ventilation or filtration system for your home.

  4. Step 4

    Seal your mattress, pillows and comforters in allergen-proof covers. Dust mites, a common allergen, live in bedding.

  5. Step 5

    Sleep on a latex mattress (as long as you're not allergic to latex). Dust mites can't survive in latex mattresses.

  6. Step 6

    Install a dehumidifier in your home if you live in a humid climate. Dust mites, mold and mildew all thrive in humid environments.

  7. Step 7

    Use an exhaust fan in the bathroom or keep the window open.

  8. Step 8

    Buy a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter and use it often.

  9. Step 9

    Avoid wall-to-wall carpeting. It is virtually impossible to remove dust mites from carpeting.

  10. Step 10

    Eliminate certain foods from your diet if you suspect they are causing allergy symptoms. Learn alternative cooking techniques if you are allergic to common foods such as wheat, corn or milk.

Tips & Warnings
  • Saline solution nose spray can help loosen secretions. It is not a drug and can be used as often as you want. You can make your own by adding 1/4 tsp. salt to 8 oz. warm water.
  • Read labels carefully when using over-the-counter antihistamines. Many make you drowsy. Avoid alcohol when taking them.
  • This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.

Comments  

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James07 said

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on 12/13/2007 I have found a product that has been scientifically proven to provide relief from allergens in your sleep. The product is called IntellAtex Negative Ion Allergen Control Bedding. This revolutionary patent pending technology traps and immobilizes positive charged allergens. Eliminate the trapped allergens by normal household laundering thereby recharging your bed linens. This technology is permanent! You can learn more at http://www.myfavoritestyles.com/intellatex.aspx

Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 A homeopathic approach to itchy or watery eyes may involve you cutting an onion to invoke tearing with the idea that it will feel better afterward. This personally works for me but may not for others.

Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 Try to find honey that was made as close to your home as possible. Take one teaspoon every morning and over time you will begin to develop an immunity to the pollens that cause your allergies.

Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 Use a good insect repellant, tikki torches & citronella candles. Wear light clothes but cover your body. If bitten, cool water helps reduce swelling, calamine cools the itch, & Benadryl helps the sting. For severe problems, seek immediate med.attention!

Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 I have found that if I get into a crisis with allergens that I can chew 1000 mg of vitamin C and it will help balance my system more quickly! This is something I have found works for me and have approval from my physician, and I always check first!

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