How To Reduce Allergy and Asthma Symptoms

An allergy or allergic reaction is a known disorder of the immune system. It is an abnormal reaction of the body to usually harmless substances called allergens. These substances are usually inhaled, swallowed, or contracted through the skin. Common allergens include pollens, molds, dust mites, insect bites and stings, bacteria, viruses, foods, plants, a number of medications, and changing environmental conditions such as extreme cold or hot temperatures.

Allergic reactions may occur in one area of the body, or be exhibited through a single manifestation such as continuous sneezing, prolonged skin rashes, fever, or a combination of different reactions. An allergic reaction is also called atopy, or atopic syndrome, which is an allergic hypersensitivity that affects some parts of the body that were not in direct contact with allergens.

Allergy is one of the four types of the human body's hypersensitivity. The most common allergic reactions experienced by many humans include allergic rhinitis, asthma, eczema, contact dermatitis, urticaria or hives, food allergies, and reactions to stinging insects such as wasps and bees.

Asthma is a mild allergy affecting 7% of the population, or roughly 20 million Americans, and 300 million worldwide. It is caused by different allergens including pollens, dust, dust mites, animal fur, or feathers. Asthma can also be caused by other factors including: respiratory infections such as cough, cold, or bronchitis; tobacco smoke and other air pollutants; and reactions to a particular food or medication.

The common symptoms of asthma include nighttime coughing, excessive "throat-clearing" type of cough, shortness of breath, feeling of tightness in the chest, difficulty in inhaling and exhaling, and wheezing, or noisy breathing. The presence of any or most of these symptoms depends on the severity of an asthmatic episode.

Reducing the symptoms of an allergy or asthma reaction involves several factors including the following:

• Wear a mask when mowing grass, gardening, or housecleaning.
• Stay indoors when pollen is high in concentration, especially during mornings and windy days.
• Keep windows and doors closed when pollen concentration is high.
• Take out any indoor plants that may be potential sources pollens, molds, and dust.
• Do not allow pets inside the house, to avoid introducing allergens such as animal hair and fur.
• Change beddings and other items regularly. Pillow cases, blankets, and other clothing must be changed regularly to avoid buildup of dust. Wash sheets in hot water.
• Use cotton and synthetic materials for beddings and pillows instead of feathers and wool.
• Enclose mattresses and pillows in plastic.
• Avoid using carpets and upholstered furniture.
• Use and regularly clean air filters and your dehumidifier.
• Reduce use of indoor air pollutants such as perfumes and perfumed products including soap, detergents, fabric softeners, tissues, paper towels, shampoo, hair gels and sprays, creams, deodorants, air fresheners, and candles.
• Read food labels carefully when buying food items with known allergens such as peanuts and related items, milk and dairy, and certain shell foods.

Avoid, if possible, medications such as aspirin, penicillin, and beta-blockers.