Living With Allergies

Allergies are a very common overreaction of the immune system to usually harmless substances. An allergy occurs when your body’s immune system sees a certain substance as harmful. Unfortunately, convincing your body otherwise is not an easy task.

The problem with allergies is that the direct cause can be hard to figure out. Substances that can cause allergies are known as allergens. Allergens can be found in food, drinks, and the environment. Many allergens are harmless and do not affect most people. Allergy symptoms may include red eyes, skin rashes, sneezing, skin swelling, runny nose, itchy rash, etc.

There are many types of allergies. Some allergies are seasonal, and others are year-round. Some allergies may be lifelong. The most common forms of allergies include, but are not limited to:

• Drug Allergies
• Food Allergies
• Insect Allergies
• Latex Allergies
• Mold Allergies
• Pet Allergies
• Pollen Allergies

Improving Your Sleep When Living With Allergies

If you are suffering from seasonal allergies, then you will know that the constant itching, sneezing, and stuffiness won’t stop at bedtime. Most allergy sufferers say that their symptoms impact their sleep, and you are likely the same. However, you can turn your bedroom into an allergen-free zone by implementing the following tips at home:

1. Keep your indoor air clean.
2. Keep your bed sheets clean.
3. Shower at night instead of morning.
4. Keep your mattress and pillow clean.
5. Consider anti-allergy bedding.

These simple yet actionable solutions can make it much easier to overcome the stress caused by allergic reactions that you would much rather avoid. It won’t stop them entirely, but it should limit reactions and thus the impact reactions have on you.
 

Preventing Allergies When Travelling

Whether you travel every week for business purposes or occasionally for leisure, suffering from pollen or dust allergies while travelling is hugely annoying. Instead of just persevering, tell your allergies to hit the road by following these simple steps:

• Before you step out of the door, check pollen counts at your destination and what allergens are common where you are going.

• Pack all medicines in your purse or bag or something that you will have at hand in the car, in your train seat, or on your flight. Keep them close by.

• If you are using a dustproof pillow or bed sheet at home, pack each of these for the trip – you’ll notice a big improvement by doing so.

• If you have a food allergy, pack your own snacks so that you won’t need to take a chance on airline or train station food!

• Consider travelling during low traffic periods, such as early in the morning or late evening. You will avoid the higher levels of pollution and spend less time on the road.

Allergies and Pet Owners

Pet allergies mostly come from your pet’s fur. Sadly, 100%, truly non-allergenic dogs or cats do not exist. The symptoms of pet allergies are itching and stuffy nose, sneezing, itchy eyes, etc. – you will know the signs and symptoms as soon as they start flaring up.

The best treatment and preventative solution is to avoid contact with dogs or cats or the areas where they live. Avoiding dogs and cats may prevent the need to take medicine.

If you have a dog or cat, not allowing them in the bedroom or on furniture can help prevent your symptoms. Vacuuming often to remove fur and dander will help to give you at least some kind of relief from the irritation that you feel.

If you want immediately satisfying relief of your allergies, please contact Dr. Lapco’s office today.