Tips to prevent an allergy

To help prevent an allergic reaction, have an allergy management plan. As allergic reactions differ from individual to individual and can be triggered by a range of substances, it is best to document your allergy pattern. Make notes of your lifestyle, medication, personal and medical history to identify allergy triggers, times and reaction. Work with your doctor to create an allergy management plan that would help minimize the discomfort that your allergies cause. While seeking professional help is the ideal choice, you could also adopt some simple techniques to keep allergies at bay. Depending on the nature of your allergy you could also adopt some preventive measures.

Reduce exposure to mold spores indoor and outdoor - Go for outdoor activities like running, jogging at times when mold counts are low. When around plants, wear a mask. When indoor, use air-conditioners with HEPA filter attachment. Strictly monitor the house for any signs of dampness or moisture and immediately eliminate it. Some simple techniques would be turn on exhaust fans, open windows at regular intervals, avoid carpets, keep sinks and basins dry, keep appliances like refrigerators and washing machines dry, discard unused belongings like books and clothes.

Limit exposure to pets - Keep pets out of the home or prefer pets which don’thave fur or feathers like fish or turtles. It is advisable to not use carpets, bare walls and floor is ideal. Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter and use a mask while vacuuming. After prolonged exposure to pets wash your clothes with hot water. Adding an air cleaner to a central heating or air conditioning system could help remove pet allergens from the air. Request someone who doesn’t have a pet allergy to help brushing or bathing the pet.

Minimize exposure to pollen - During pollen season confine yourself to the indoors to the extent possible. While going outdoors, remember to wear a hat and sunglasses. Keep windows closed at home, in the car or any vehicle and use central air conditioning with a HEPA filter. Start taking allergy medication well in advance so that the medicine can be effective once the season begins. Wash clothes, bedding in hot soapy water and use a dryer rather than clothes line during pollen season.

Keep a record of allergy causing drug - As soon you observe a reaction stop using the drug and consult a doctor. For a mild reaction, use cool compresses on the affected area or take a cool shower. Avoid using strong soaps, detergents, shampoos or other such products. Stay in a cool room and wear comfortable, light weight, loose fitting clothes. You may also take an over-the-counter antihistamine or apply medicated lotion on the affected area.

Be aware of foods that trigger allergies – Always double check the labels before buying any food or drinks. At a restaurant or a social gathering be certain of the ingredients in the dishes you consume, do not hesitate to voice out your allergies. For kids, make sure that all those who interact regularly with the child such as school staff, childcare personnel, parents of friends are all updated about the child’s food allergies, signs and symptoms and immediate action in case the child experiences a reaction.

These are some of the tips to try and prevent an allergy. However, despite these measures if you continue facing an allergic reaction, it is advisable to seek professional help of a diagnostics service center such as Apollo Diagnostics. Experienced consultants shall perform allergy diagnosis including laboratory tests to help alleviate your allergy woes.