The Allergic Salute

You vacuum with a HEPA filter. You stay indoors when the pollen count is high. You take medications like your doctor tells you to. But do you really have your symptoms under control? If you're constantly doing the "allergic salute," the answer is probably no. This gesture -- a swipe at the tip of an itchy, runny nose -- is especially common in children.

Allergic Shiners

Dark circles are another sign of allergies. You get them when you're always rubbing itchy eyes. Take antihistamines to put a stop to symptoms like itchy, teary eyes, sneezing, and a runny nose. If you already take them but they don’t work really well, talk to your doctor about changing your treatment plan.

Chronic Congestion

If you have a cold or the flu, your stuffy nose should go away in a week or two. If congestion goes on and on, allergies are more likely to blame. During an allergic reaction, the lining of your nasal passages swells and makes extra mucus. You might get sinus pressure and headaches. Nasal steroids are used to reduce the mucosal inflammation in your nasal passages caused by allergies. For a long-term action plan, talk to an allergist.

Wheezing

Wheezing is often linked with asthma, but it can also be associated with seasonal allergies, or a serious allergic reaction. The whistling sound happens when you have to breathe through narrowed airways. In severe cases, you might need emergency care. Talk to your doctor if you have wheezing related to allergies.

Itchy Skin

You may just be dried out. But if it doesn't stop itching or if it turns into a rash, you might have eczema. This skin reaction is common in people with allergies. Triggers include soap or detergent, chemicals in fabric softeners, pet dander, and rough fabrics. You can treat it with antihistamines, moisturizers, and hydrocortisone cream. For severe cases, your doctor can prescribe medications.

Hives

These pale, itchy, red welts can last from several hours to several days. They're an allergic reaction to something like food, medication, or an insect sting. Antihistamines usually give immediate relief. You might need steroids if they don’t help. The best defense is to find and avoid any triggers.

Insomnia

Itchy skin and eyes, a stuffy head, postnasal drip, sinus pain, and other allergy symptoms can make it tough to sleep. Coughing or wheezing may also make it hard to nod off. Some allergy meds can disrupt a good night's sleep. If you’re lying awake a lot at night, it may be time to ask your doctor about changing your treatment plan.

Trouble Concentrating

It’s hard to focus when your eyes are tearing, your nose is dripping, and you've been up all night. Plus, some over-the-counter antihistamines may make you feel foggy. If allergies are putting a cramp in your work, home life, or relationships, call the doctor and talk about what you can do.

Fatigue

Allergies can zap your energy levels. They make it hard to sleep. They send your immune system into overdrive, which wears you out. And the meds you take for them can make you sleepy. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist. Some newer products don’t have that effect. 

Depression

Do you feel blue when allergies flare? Scientists are looking into links between allergies, mood changes, and depression. Although we can't prove that allergies are to blame, there are treatments. Tell your doctor if you feel down.

Spring cleaning: Allergy prevention in the home

While seniors may not be able to take antihistamines, they can take preventative steps to keep allergy symptoms at bay.

The most common cause of allergic diseases is from inhalant allergens, such as mold and pollens. Keeping your home clear of these can help relieve some of your discomfort this spring.  Here are a few recommendations from Dr. Robinson to prevent and reduce seasonal allergies for you or your loved ones, without the use of antihistamines.

• Clean your home weekly. Vacuum and dust your home as often as possible during the spring. Make sure to wear a mask if you are extra sensitive.

• Use air conditioning. Keep your windows closed and rely on your air conditioning to keep your home cool (between 68 F and 72 F) and allergen free.

• Wash your hands. When you come inside, wash your hands to get rid of pollens that may cause allergies or reactions. You should also change your clothes and put them immediately in the wash as well.

• Research pollen levels in your area. Local allergen forecasts can help you note when pollen levels are particularly high so you can avoid going outside or take extra care.

• Eat foods rich in vitamin C. These foods can help fight inflammation. Other foods include ginger, walnuts, apples, and green, leafy vegetables.

• Remove unnecessary clutter. If you have items around the house that serve as a dust collector, get rid of them. Dust can build up and irritate your allergies.

• Use a dehumidifier. Mold is a common cause of seasonal allergies. Keep your home’s humidity under 50 percent when possible.

Allergies can be a nuisance for anyone—especially seniors who expect to spend their retirement years on the golf course or in their garden. If allergy symptoms still persist or if you are in extreme discomfort, please contact your doctor immediately.

Allergy season is here. If you are an allergy sufferer, you know it can be tough to go about your day as normal. Our latest article will help you learn ways to better your life while beating those allergens. If you or a loved one’s is combating allergies and it is just getting to be too much – along with other quality of living concerns – give us a call to learn about how our home services can help.