How To Help Bad Allergies

Get A Good Hvac Air Filter

All home HVAC ventilation systems include an air filter that has to be cleaned or changed out on a regular basis. Some filters only need to be changed once per season, but others should be swapped out more often, every couple of months or so.

Not all air filters are created equal, and some are much more effective than others at getting out the tiny particles that trigger allergies. Most filters include a MERV rating, which is a standard rating that tells you what kinds of particles a filter can and cannot screen out.

A lower MERV rating is associated with low-quality air filters, while high MERV ratings are given to more effective filters. You should always look for a hypo-allergenic air filter that’s fine enough to catch tiny allergens like pollen and mold spores.

What Is Allergic Rhinitis

Allergic rhinitis is the medical term for hay fever or allergies. You have an allergy when your body overreacts to things that dont cause problems for most people. These things are called allergens. Your bodys overreaction to the allergens is what causes symptoms.

There are 2 forms of allergic rhinitis:

• Seasonal : Caused by an allergy to pollen and/or mold spores in the air. Pollen is the fine powder that comes from flowering plants. It can be carried through the air and is easily inhaled. Symptoms are seasonal and usually occur in spring, late summer, and fall.
• Perennial: Caused by other allergens such as dust mites, pet hair or dander, or mold. Symptoms occur year-round.

Hay fever is the most common form of allergy. Symptoms of hay fever are seasonal. You will feel worse when the pollens that affect you are at their highest levels.

Investing In A Quality Vacuum

It isnt fair that you have to suffer from allergies and clean more often to feel better, but such is life. Pollen and other allergens can get trapped in your rugs and carpets and continue to haunt you, so get to the root of the issue by sucking these allergens out of your house.

One Hoover model is especially good for combating pet hair. A Dyson is also adept at capturing pet hair, allergens and truly anything else on your floors . Or you can go with an iRobot, which is strong on dust and best of all hands-free.

You may want to ask a family member or roommate to empty the vacuum for you so you dont have to suffer from all of the allergens youve finally captured.

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Get A Good Air Purifier

While a decent HVAC air filter is important for indoor air quality, you can step it up a notch further by getting a mechanical air purifier. These devices use multiple filters and even UV light to remove allergens from the air much more effectively than an HVAC filter alone.

Air purifiers come in a variety of qualities and sizes, and what kind you get depends on your individual needs. You can get a small, portable device for use in a single room or you can even get a large, whole-house air purifier that hooks up to your home’s main ventilation.

Some air purifiers are better than others, and their advertising can be deceptive. Look for air purifiers that are certified by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America to ensure that the one you buy can filter common allergens from the air.

HEPA filters are considered to be one of best high-quality air purifiers and is the gold standard for mechanical air filtration. They use multiple filtration steps and can screen out least 99.97% of particles that are 0.3 microns or larger from the air.

The Bottom Line On Chihuahua Allergies

As an owner, it’s heartbreaking to see your Chihuahua suffering from allergies. It may begin with him occasionally gnawing his tail, only to progress to constant self-inflicting wounds. Aside from the pain and discomfort this creates, this can also lead to secondary infections. A bald patch of fur can quickly turn into an open, bleeding wound thus, increasing the risk of a bacterial or yeast infection.

Whether your Chihuahua is suffering from flea, inhalant, food or contact allergies, there are ways to treat and manage his condition. However, you should discuss all possible treatment options with your veterinarian to determine which method is best suited for your Chihuahua. If your Chihuahua suffers from mild seasonal allergies, antihistamines and allergen control may be recommended. If he suffers from severe food allergies, a novel dietary trial may be recommended to identify the problematic ingredient. A licensed veterinarian can help you identify the underlying cause of your Chihuahua’s allergies and offer recommendations on how to treat it.

Does your Chihuahua suffer from allergies? We’d love to hear your story in the comments section below!

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Quick Fixes For Seasonal Allergies

Did you know? Allergies are one of the leading chronic illnesses in the United States and affect about 50 million people each year.

Seasonal allergies typically ramp up in early March and run through fall depending on where you live in the country. Southern states may see allergy season begin earlier in February. Here are some quick tips for allergy relief.

• Use antihistamines.

Histamine is a chemical found in some of your bodys cells. Its involved in the creation of many allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itching, or a runny nose. Antihistamines stop the production of histamine, which may then provide you with relief from symptoms.

Oral antihistamines come in many forms such as tablets, capsules, liquids, and more. You can talk to a doctor on LiveHealth Online for advice on which medicine to try. Its important to note that some antihistamines can make you drowsy.

• Try decongestants or nasal sprays.

Do you need assistance distinguishing between allergies and a cold? Check out the differences in symptoms.

• Keep the windows closed.

Try to keep your windows closed if youre experiencing allergies. This can be tough to do if the weather in your area is nice and sunny, but closed windows will help prevent pollen and other allergens from being brought indoors. A good rule of thumb is to stay inside with shut windows when pollen counts are high. Many weather or allergy smartphone apps can keep you updated on allergen levels in your area.

• Talk to a doctor on LiveHealth Online.

Antihistamine For Dogs With Skin Allergies

Your dog can be placed on an antihistamine for allergy relief through your vets advice.

After a thorough diagnosis, your vet will determine the best antihistamine for dogs with allergies.

Some of the best antihistamines that are quite safe and work faster include Zyrtec apoquel , Benadryl, Claritin

Since these antihistamines are long-acting, the normal dosage is usually one tablet every 24 hrs. However, the dosage may vary depending on the dogs age and weight.

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The Most Common Fall Allergies

Its such a pretty season, but you cant seem to stop sneezing. So what is it that youre actually allergic to?

Fall allergens are generally weeds, Dr. Aronica says. He breaks down some of the most common allergens during this time of year.

Ragweed

The most common fall allergen is ragweed, a member of the daisy family that starts to bloom in North America in late August and lives through autumn.

Ragweeds flowers produce significant amounts of pollen, which makes it an especially potent allergen. A single ragweed plant can release up to a billion grains of pollen!

Other seasonal weeds

Ragweed may be the primary culprit of fall allergies, but it certainly isnt the only one. Other weeds associated with allergic rhinitis include:

• Cocklebur.
• Tumbleweed.

How Do You Treat Allergies

Most allergy sufferers can find relief from over-the-counter allergy medications.

Nasal sprays or intranasal steroid sprays, such as Flonase or Nasacort, are a good first line option because side effects are minimal, consisting mostly of nasal dryness or bleeding for some people. Its important to note that nasal sprays need to be in your system for a while before taking effect. Expect them to be in your system for up to a week before they really start to kick in.

Over-the-counter antihistamines, such as Zyrtec, Allegra or Claritin, can be a good option if nasal sprays arent effective or if you dont tolerate nasal sprays well. In most cases sprays and antihistamines can be combined when symptoms are especially bad.

If youre still struggling with symptoms after trying out some over the counter medications, it might be time to see an allergy specialist.

At your first appointment youll talk about your medical history and your symptoms and most patients will undergo skin testing. Skin testing involves pricking the skin with a trace amount of different allergens and measuring the skins reaction after about 20 minutes. Your appointment could last a few hours, but youll receive definitive information about what you are allergic to, as well as a personalized treatment plan.

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Check Problem Areas For Mold And Mildew

There are certain places in houses that tend to have a higher risk of mold build-up. These include basements, bathrooms, attics, crawl spaces, and any areas that might get damp.

You should inspect these areas in your home somewhat regularly to spot mold and mildew growth before it gets out of control. Some mold spots can be cleaned yourself by hand, but you might need to call in a professional for larger problems.

It’s also important to identify and repair any leaks in your pipes so they don’t cause mold to grow in your walls. If you notice your allergies are acting up in your house, getting it thoroughly inspected for mold and fungus by a professional could help you find and take care of any problems.

Tip : Use Medications Properly

Some commonly used medications do more harm than good when used incorrectly and you may not know that youre doing so.

The popular nose spray Afrin can work great for clearing up nasal congestion, but if used for longer than three to four days, the nose can become addicted, resulting in a bad rebound congestion that will leave you miserable. Save Afrin for once-in-a-while use, like an hour before a plane flight, which can help with air-pressure changes and their effects on your sinuses and airways. Use other sprays for daily control.

The popular decongestant pill pseudoephedrine has moved behind the counter due to medication abuse, so youll have to ask a pharmacist to dispense this for you. And people with high blood pressure or heart problems should think twice before taking pseudoephedrine or phenylephrine, since it can raise blood pressure and cause anxious, jittery feelings similar to a caffeine overdose. Treat it like coffee, and avoid using it after midday. You also should drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.

Talk to your doctor or nurse if you have questions or concerns about any allergy medications you use.

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Don’t Eat Raw Foods At The Height Of Allergy Season

Among other raw foods, raw apples or pesticides on lettuce may bother your allergies. During the height of allergy season, when symptoms are really bothering you, cut fresh foods out of your diet and stick with canned and cooked foods, Grossan suggests. Cooking foods lessens your risk of developing allergy symptoms. So switching from, say, fresh apples to applesauce may help.

Reduce Allergens In The Home

If your cat has allergies to things other than food, the best thing you can do is get rid of some of the allergens in your home.

To do this, Dr. Wooten recommends installing a HEPA filter in your air ducts and using an air purifier.

Also, you should keep your bedding clean. Washing all bedding weekly with unscented shampoo helps, Dr. Wooten said. Also wash any blankets.

Dealing with your cats allergies might seem stressful, but its really not all that bad. There are so many different ways to treat the symptoms, and your veterinarian will help you and your cat every step of the way.

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Can Medical Marijuana Help With Seasonal Allergies

Cannabis For Seasonal Allergies

How Marijuana Can Help With Spring Weed and Pollen Allergies from CannabisNet on Vimeo.

The changing of the seasons can be fun, but not if youre prone to seasonal allergies. Certain times of the year, spring and fall in particular, tend to bring along allergens that cause irritating sneezes, coughs, contact dermatitis , itchy eyes, and a runny nose. For some people, seasonal allergies go away on its own after a few days but for others it can be quite a nuisance, with symptoms lasting for several weeks or even the entire season as long as they are exposed to the allergens.

Pollen, grass, and mold are the most common allergens that trigger allergic reactions. The severity and timing of allergies are different based on location, and there are also other climate factors that influence how bad your allergic reactions are, such as temperature, rainfall, wind, humidity, and more. Also referred to as allergic rhinitis or hay fever, the symptoms of seasonal allergies occur due to an inflammation or swelling in the mucous membrane of the nose when exposed to allergens.

The most common medication for seasonal allergies is antihistamines, which can be purchased over the counter. There are many types of antihistamines in the market, although several of them come with unwanted side effects including drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, moodiness, restlessness, confusion, and blurred vision.

How Cannabis Can Help

Keep Pets Out Of The Bedroom

Cant seem to get all of the pet dander out of the carpet when you vacuum? It may be a better idea to keep the pets out of your bedroom altogether. The pet dander can get into your carpet, but it can also get into your bedding, which in turn can get the pet dander in your hair. Then you carry around those allergens near your face all day long, causing more and more allergy symptoms.

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Symptoms Of Allergic Rhinitis

Your symptoms can vary, depending on the severity of your allergies. Symptoms can include:

• Sneezing.
• Itching .
• Runny nose.
• Pressure in the nose and cheeks.
• Ear fullness and popping.
• Watery, red, or swollen eyes.
• Dark circles under your eyes.
• Trouble smelling.
• Hives.

Allergic rhinitis can last several weeks, longer than a cold or the flu. It does not cause fever. The nasal discharge from hay fever is thin, watery, and clear. Nasal discharge from a cold or the flu tends to be thicker. Itching is common with hay fever but not with a cold or the flu. Sneezing occurs more with hay fever. You may even have severe sneeze attacks.

Better Safe Than Sorry

At the end of the day, if you are unsure about your symptoms, then you should err on the side of caution.

If you aren’t feeling well, stay indoors and contact your health care provider. This is the best way to ensure that you aren’t contributing to the spread of coronavirus. You may also call the UMMS Nurse Call Line to discuss your symptoms. Only people with symptoms can get a doctor’s order to get tested for coronavirus.

Even if you don’t have symptoms or your doctor confirms that you have allergies, continue to wear a mask, social distance and get vaccinated to slow the spread of the disease.

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Things To Try If Your Allergies Are Worse Than Ever This Year

If youre really feeling it this allergy season, well, gesundheit. From sneezing to congestion to itchy eyeballs to a relentless runny nose, there are plenty of signs that allergy season is upon us and youre unfortunately one of its victims.

There are a host of factors that affect the strength allergy season not just from year to year, but from day to day, saidLuz Fonacier, an allergist and immunologist and president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. Among these factors are climate change, rainfall and even wind.

Since so many factors contribute to high pollen counts, its all but impossible to predict how intense an allergy season will be, Fonacier told HuffPost. In addition to taking steps to limit your exposure to allergens that affect you, seeing an allergist before the season starts can also help ensure you find relief.

For many, the last few weeks have been miserable. Before reaching for over-the-counter allergy relief, its important to get a diagnosis, Fonacier said. An allergist has advanced training and experience to properly diagnose your condition, identify your triggers and prescribe an allergy treatment and management plan to help you feel better and live better.

So on your next trip to the pharmacy, be ready. The following tips and items may help mitigate the many annoyances that come with seasonal allergies, so they might be worth a try.

Try Using An Air Purifier

The answer to all of the above can be easily provided by a good-quality HEPA air purifier.

Air purifiers can remove the following:

• Pet Dander
• Bad smells
• Pollutants from outside

Essentially, an air purifier represents an ‘all in one’ package that will allow you to employ the vast majority of our list of ways to reduce winter allergies. Take, for instance, the simple act of opening the window to let ‘fresh air’ in.

You needn’t worry about pollution from outside getting in as an air purifier will remove the pollutants leaving you with nice fresh air.

Clair Air purifiers are fitted with an extremely efficient HEPA purifier and have a UV light that kills viruses. They effectively remove allergens from the air in as little as 15 minutes. They are designed to be run continuously, providing a steady stream of fresh and really pure air.

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