Allergy Tips
A Brief Summary of Allergies For Our Patients
Common Allergens:
Pollen Sources
Weeds
Trees
Grasses
Indoor Allergens
Animal Danders
Dust Mites
Molds
Allergen Avoidance:
Dust Mites
Use hypoallergenic bedding
Wash bedding/sheets in HOT water
Vacuum often with a fine filter vacuum
Pollen
Stay indoors during peak allergy pollen times (10AM - 4PM)
Shower after coming in from outside
Keep doors and windows closed
Pets
Wash pets often
Keep pets out of bedrooms
Vacuum or mop carpets and floors often
Molds
Limit house plants
Reduce moisture in bathrooms/kitchens
Use a dehumidifier
Common Symptoms of Allergic Rhinitis:
Sneezing
Runny nose/watery eyes
Itchy nose/eyes
Nasal congestion
Medicines commonly Used For Allergies:
Antihistamines (non-sedating)- usually effective against sneezing, runny nose, and itching/watery eyes. Also available in nasal spray form
Decongestants- effective for relieving nasal congestion. Avoid nasal spray forms
Combination medications- Decongestant and Antihistamine- help to relieve all above symptoms in one medication. Now also available in a single nasal spray form.
Nasal corticosteroid sprays- considered the most effective treatment for relieving nasal symptoms of allergic rhinitis.
For more information about allergies