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What To Do For Severe Allergies

If You Had A Severe Allergic Reaction To A Covid

Allergist explains severe allergic reactions

CDC recommends that people getting a booster get an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine . However, if you had a severe allergic reaction after a dose of an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine or if you have had a severe allergic reaction to any ingredient in an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine, you may be able to get the J& J/Janssen COVID-19 vaccine.

Learn about getting a different type of COVID-19 vaccine after an allergic reaction.

Summary* Recommendations: Prevention And Control Of Influenza With Vaccines: Recommendations Of The Advisory Committee On Immunization Practicesunited States 2013

Influenza Prevention and Control Recommendations

This document is a summary of the recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices for the 2013-2014 season in the United States. The full recommendations will be published in Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report .

Note on abbreviations: This document includes revised abbreviations to refer to currently available influenza vaccines. Specifically:

  • The former abbreviation TIV has been replaced with the new abbreviation IIV . For 2013-14, IIVs as a class will include:
  • egg-based and cell culture-based trivalent inactivated influenza vaccines , and
  • egg-based quadrivalent inactivated influenza vaccine .
  • RIV refers to recombinant hemagglutinin influenza vaccine, available as a trivalent formulation for 2013-14
  • LAIV refers to live-attenuated influenza vaccine, available as a quadrivalent formulation for 2013-14.
  • LAIV, IIV, and RIV denote vaccine categories numeric suffix specifies the number of antigens in the vaccine.
  • Where necessary to refer specifically to cell culture-based vaccine, the prefix cc is used .
  • What To Do If Your House Has Flooded

    If your home has flooded, you need to act quickly to prevent mold. This could include anything from a busted pipe to a natural disaster. To prevent mold, your home needs to be completely dried out within 24 to 48 hours. This includes carpet, furniture, books, and walls. If these items are not completely dry, mold can hide.

    If you are not able to dry your home out right way, you should assume you have mold. The presence of mold can affect your health. Protect yourself well before attempting to clean up mold. If possible, use a professional mold remediation company. They can clean up the mold while preventing the mold spores from spreading.

    Using CERTIFIED asthma & allergy friendly® products in your home can help you have a healthier indoor environment, as well as reduce allergens. Learn more about the asthma & allergy friendly® Certification Program by visiting aafa.org/certified.

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    What Are The Treatments For Mold Allergy

    In some cases, there may be ways to reduce or avoid mold exposure in your environment. This may not always be possible and you may need medicines.

    • Avoid contact with mold.
    • Take medicine for nasal or other allergic symptoms. Antihistamines and nasal corticosteroid sprays are available without a prescription. If you have allergic asthma, talk with your doctor about which medicines may be best for you. You may also be a candidate for immunotherapy . Immunotherapy may help reduce symptoms and medicines and provide more effective long-term control of your symptoms. Learn more about allergy treatments.

    Talk With Your Doctor About Seasonal Allergy Testing Or Allergy Shots

    Learn how to help a baby or child having a severe allergic reaction. # ...

    Allergy testing can help your care provider diagnose your exact allergies and come up with a treatment plan to help relieve your symptoms.

    Allergy tests are pretty simple. The tests are performed on your skin at a clinic that offers allergy testing. This determines what allergens are causing your symptoms.

    Depending on how severe your allergies appear to be, your doctor may recommend immunotherapy with allergy shots to help reduce and maybe even eliminate your bodys reaction to environmental allergens.

    These shots help teach your body to not be allergic and are given over the course of a couple of years until a target dose is reached. Once the right dosage has been reached, your doctor will work with you on a maintenance schedule.

    Allergy shots are the most effective way of treating allergies and work better than most prescription medications. A course of allergy shots can give you long-term symptom relief that could last for 5-10 years. Many people have symptom relief the rest of their life. You can discuss the cost of allergy shots with your insurance provider.

    Read Also: Are Allergy Shots Preventive Care

    Keep Your Home Safe From Allergens

    There are many steps you can take around your house to help with seasonal allergies.

    Use humidifiers and dehumidifiers at the right times for your allergies

    In the spring, summer and early fall, remove excess moisture from the air using a dehumidifier or air conditioner. This can help reduce the growth of mold and mildew spores known to cause some allergies.

    In dry winter months, a humidifier can add moisture to a room to soothe dry, irritated nasal passages. Make sure to clean and change the filter regularly. Unfortunately, moisturized air can also cause dust mites to increase.

    Change to HEPA filters for your heating and cooling system

    A HEPA filter can trap airborne allergens like pollen and pet dander, helping keep more irritants out of the air. Just make sure youre regularly replacing filters particularly during high usage times. A good rule of thumb is to check your filter once a month to see if it needs replacing.

    Consider adding an air purifier, too

    Air purifiers can also be used to clean finer particles and fumes that your furnace or air conditioning filter cant catch. There are several different types of air purifiers and each works differently to clean the air you breathe. So, research your options to determine which may be the best fit for you needs.

    Other ways to reduce allergens in your home:

    Use A Saline Sinus Rinse

    When allergies cause sinus problems, the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology recommend a person rinse their sinuses with saline. This can remove allergens and clear the airways.

    The AAAAI recommend the following saline recipe:

    • mix 3 teaspoons of salt with 1 teaspoon of baking soda
    • add 1 teaspoon of this mixture to 8 ounces of boiled water
    • dissolve the mixture in the water then use as a saline rinse

    Sinus rinsing devices can be purchased online or from a pharmacy.

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    Natural Allergy Relief Options

    What helps relieve allergies fast? Watching what you eat, getting plenty of fresh air and drinking enough water are some of the natural remedies that can relieve allergies by improving functions of the immune system.

    It may take several weeks for your symptoms to subside, but they are likely to be better kept under control when you tackle the root causes. Here are nine ways to get natural allergy relief.

    1. Eat an Anti-Inflammatory, Alkaline Diet

    First and foremost, start eating an anti-inflammatory diet to reduce your risk for allergies and many other health problems. Caring for your body with nutrient-dense foods gives your immune system the ability to repair itself, bringing it back into balance so it can fight off common allergies in your environment.

    Here are some of the best foods and ingredients to incorporate into your diet to help you beat allergies:

    Although its not abundant in many foods, vitamin D is also important for immune function and may help manage allergy symptoms. In fact, certain studies have shown that children who live farther from the equator are more likely to develop allergies and suffer higher rates of hospital admissions due to allergic reactions.

    You can get enough vitamin D by spending about 15 minutes in the sun most days without sunscreen and by eating foods like whole milk and some mushrooms for natural allergy relief.

    2. Local Raw Honey

    3. Apple Cider Vinegar

    4. Quercetin

    5. Neti Pot

    6. Stinging Nettle

    8. Probiotics

    Allergies Caused By Fleas And Parasites

    Allergy – How To Deal With A Severe Allergic Reaction

    Almost every dog will get fleas, ticks, mites, or other parasites at some point in its life. Usually, these parasites are easily removed, and the dog will not have an adverse reaction. However, some pets will develop allergies, mainly relating to biting parasites. It is typically the parasites saliva that causes the allergic reaction in dogs.

    Flea bite hypersensitivity in dogs will cause extreme itching and discomfort to your pet, this is known as flea bite dermatitis or pruritus. Symptoms and signs include:

    • excessive scratching
    • formation of scabs or lesions on the skin.

    Symptoms are episodic and tend to worsen in summer months, as well as when the pet ages.

    Diagnosis of a parasite or flea allergy is relatively straightforward, as you or your veterinarian will be able to identify the parasites on the dogs skin.

    Treating the allergic reaction usually involves removing the parasite, either with a topical medicine or by grooming. This should stop the reaction.

    For excessive itching, vets may prescribe steroids , antihistamines or antibiotics for a secondary infection.

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    Persons Who Live With Or Care For Persons At Higher Risk For Influenza

    All persons aged 6 months should be vaccinated annually. Continued emphasis should be placed on vaccination of persons who live with or care for persons at higher risk for influenza-related complications. When vaccine supply is limited, vaccination efforts should focus on delivering vaccination to persons at higher risk for influenza-related complications listed above, as well as these persons:

    • Healthcare personnel
    • Household contacts and caregivers of children aged 59 months and adults aged 50 years, with particular emphasis on vaccinating contacts of children aged < 6 months and
    • Household contacts and caregivers of persons with medical conditions that put them at higher risk for severe complications from influenza.

    HCP and persons who are contacts of persons in these groups and who are not contacts of severely immunocompromised persons may receive any influenza vaccine which is otherwise indicated. Individuals who care for the severely immunocompromised should receive either IIV or RIV3.

    Tips For Surviving A Horrible Allergy Season

    Experts say this spring’s allergy season may be one of the worst ones yet. Here’s how to deal with it.

    This year, April really was the cruelest month for people with allergies and the rest of spring is looking pretty mean too.

    Blame a perfect storm of weather conditions for the season’s awful allergies, including a snowy, rainy winter in some parts of the country that led to an abundance of tree and grass pollen a sudden shift from wintry to warm weather that encouraged the pollen’s release and windy conditions that sent particles airborne, where they enter our noses, throats, and eyes and trigger symptoms that range from congestion, sneezing, and itchy eyes to headaches, diarrhea, and even depression.

    Indeed, pollen and mold spore counts hit all-time highs in certain parts of the country, making people prone to seasonal allergies even more miserable than usual, and even setting off allergies in people who usually don’t get them. “It’s been a difficult and intense spring for people with allergies,” says Mitchell R. Lester, MD, president of the New England Society of Allergy.

    The five worst cities for allergies this spring are Knoxville, Tenn Louisville, Ky Charlotte, N.C. Jackson, Miss., and Chattanooga, Tenn., according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation, which uses an algorithm that includes airborne pollen and mold counts, and the number of allergy medications taken and allergy specialists available in each city.

    Seasonal Allergies on the Rise

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    Influenza Vaccines And Use Of Influenza Antiviral Medications

    • Administration of IIV to persons receiving influenza antiviral drugs for treatment or chemoprophylaxis is acceptable.
    • LAIV should not be administered until 48 hours after cessation of influenza antiviral therapy.
    • If influenza antiviral medications are administered within 2 weeks after receipt of LAIV, the vaccine dose should be repeated 48 or more hours after the last dose of antiviral medication.
    • Persons receiving antiviral drugs within the period 2 days before to 14 days after vaccination with LAIV should be revaccinated at a later date with any approved vaccine formulation .

    Can Dogs Be Allergic To Cats

    How to Get Relief from Allergies

    It is a well-known fact that some people are allergic to dog dander or cat dander, which is composed of tiny particles of shed hair and skin.

    What is less well known is that dogs can also be allergic to catsand to people! Symptoms of a cat allergy in dogs are usually inflamed or itchy skin, sneezing, or a runny nose.

    Veterinarians can test for an allergy to cat dander, and treat it in the same way they treat other environmental allergies.

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    Vaccine Dose Considerations For Children 6 Months Through 8 Years Of Age

    Children aged 6 months through 8 years who are receiving influenza vaccine for the first time, and some in this age group who have previously been vaccinated, require two doses of vaccine administered 4 weeks apart. Two approaches for determining the number of doses are recommended, both of which are acceptable:

  • The first approach, outlined in the flowchart , takes into consideration only doses of seasonal influenza vaccine received since July 1, 2010. This approach has the advantage of simplicity, particularly in settings in which it is difficult to ascertain vaccination history prior to the 2010-11 season. Using this approach, children 6 months through 8 years of age need only 1 dose of vaccine in 2013-14 if they received a total of 2 or more doses of seasonal vaccine since July 1, 2010. Children who did not receive a total of 2 or more doses of seasonal vaccine since July 1, 2010 require 2 doses in 2013-14.
  • 2 or more doses of seasonal influenza vaccine since July 1, 2010 or
  • 2 or more doses of seasonal influenza vaccine before July 1, 1010 and 1 or more doses of monovalent 2009 vaccine or
  • 1 or more doses of seasonal influenza vaccine before July 1, 2010 and 1 or more doses of seasonal influenza vaccine since July 1, 2010
  • Children 6 months through 8 years of age for whom one of these conditions is not met require 2 doses in 2013-14.

    How To Handle Anaphylactic Shock

    More severe allergy attacks will not abate with home remedies, and its essential that you quickly recognize more serious symptoms, like abdominal cramps and breathing problems. What should you do in the case of anaphylaxis or anaphylactic shock?

    If you are alone, immediately call 911. Anaphylactic shock happens quickly, and your throat could swell and cut off your supply of oxygen within minutes, causing permanent and serious damage. If you know you are at risk for severe allergic reactions, always carry an Epinephrine pen, or two, with you at all times. Epinephrine quickly reduces and reverses anaphylactic symptoms as its comprised of adrenaline. You can never predict when a bee will sting you or a food youre allergic to wind up on your plate, so take the appropriate steps to protect yourself. You should also make your close friends and family aware of your allergy, so that they can also be on the lookout for severe symptoms and be ready to take the appropriate steps if youre unable to.

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    What Is A Sun Allergy

    A sun allergy is a term used by the medical community to describe conditions where people experience negative reactions after spending time in the sun.

    There are several types of sun allergies, and reactions can range from mild to severe. A sun allergy can result in an annoying but manageable rash or something as severe as painful blisters and illness.

    So, what do you do? Usually, the most effective way to avoid these uncomfortable side effects is to minimize your exposure to the sun and to take steps to prepare ahead of time when you plan on spending time outside.

    Baby Benadrylan Easy Way To Treat A Dog Bee Sting

    Preventing Severe Allergic Attacks

    Benadryl for dogs? Baby Benadryl is a milder form of the popular over-the-counter antihistamine medication, and many vets recommend it for a dog with allergies, or when a bee stings a dog.

    Usually, the recommended dosage for dogs is 1mg per pound of body weight, 2 to 3 times daily. Baby Benadryl is 12.5mg per chewable tablet, so a 25-pound dog, two tablets would be enough. Always consult a veterinarian before giving your dog Benadryl or any other medication.

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    Influenza Vaccination For Pregnant Women

    • Women who are or will be pregnant during influenza season should receive IIV. Live attenuated influenza vaccine is not recommended for use during pregnancy.
    • Postpartum women can receive either LAIV or IIV.
    • Pregnant and postpartum women do not need to avoid contact with persons recently vaccinated with LAIV.

    How Can I Minimize The Impact Of Symptoms During A Ragweed Season

    • Pre-medicate with an antihistamine and/or corticosteroid nasal spray 2 hours prior to allergen exposure. For eye allergies, use eye drops as needed.
    • Avoid ragweed pollen. In late summer and early fall, levels are highest in the morning. Pollen can also surge on windy, warm days and after a thunderstorm or rainfall. Limit time outside when pollen counts are high usually in the mornings through early afternoons.
    • Change clothes when coming inside.
    • Wear a mask when doing outdoor activities and raking leaves. Find a mask designed to filter pollen and keep it from reaching your nasal passages.
    • Monitor ragweed pollen counts. Airborne pollens can travel for several miles.
    • Keep windows and doors shut at your home close windows of your car while driving.
    • Take a shower, wash your hair and change your clothes after time outside.
    • Dry laundry indoors rather than on a clothesline outdoors.

    If you have allergic asthma that is affected by an allergy to ragweed, talk with your doctor about adjusting your Asthma Action Plan or treatment plan in the late summer and fall. Be sure to take your daily asthma medications as prescribed even during the summer when you may experience fewer symptoms and avoid exposure to ragweed when possible.

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