Common treatments for allergy relief
Allergies affect about 20% of the US population and can affect people’s lives because of the discomfort they bring. Children who suffer from year-round allergic reactions may miss days of school due to the discomfort of frequent sneezing, itchy eyes, throat and nose, hives, and sometimes stomach pain and vomiting if the allergy is caused by food. Adults become unproductive at work during allergy attacks.
Allergies can be caused by a variety of substances, from food to pollen, animal dander (cat and dog hair), mites, cotton fibers, etc. Although allergens may differ from person to person, the physical reactions are often the same. Allergic reactions occur when the body’s immune system releases antibodies called immunoglobulin E (IgE), which release histamines that cause the symptoms. This is the body’s way of getting rid of allergens it considers invaders.
Patients are often treated with antihistamines, nasal sprays, and decongestants. However, there are some unwanted side effects seen in some patients who take these drugs. Some of the most common side effects seen are drowsiness, headache, blurred vision, dry throat, mouth, nose and eyes, upset stomach, dizziness, nausea and constipation.
Often side effects occur due to overdose or taking the drugs with other drugs prescribed for other diseases. Nasal sprays, for example, often provide immediate relief with their albuterol and beta content, which relieves difficulty breathing. However, the patient may also suffer from the mentioned side effects if the nasal sprays are used too often.
Doctors may also prescribe corticosteroids to reduce inflammation in the bronchial area. However, some people may also have reactions to it such as blurred vision, abdominal pain, eyelid swelling, nasal congestion, acne or skin rash, and muscle cramps and general fatigue. In other cases, long-term use of corticosteroid medications can also lead to weight gain and fluid retention. Cataracts can also develop, as can high blood sugar, which can lead to diabetes.
Alternative treatments for allergy relief
With all the possible side effects one can get from the frequent use of antihistamines, anti-inflammatory drugs, and nasal sprays that are often prescribed for allergy relief, it’s no wonder people are looking for alternative allergy treatments. Knowing about the pollen level in the area you live in will also help you avoid exposure to pollen that can trigger allergies.
Diet and lifestyle changes can do wonders for allergy relief. Increasing your intake of fruits and vegetables that are rich in natural vitamins can increase your body’s resistance to allergies without necessarily taking anti-allergy medications. Avoiding foods that you know will trigger allergies is also a practical solution. Using dehumidifiers and air filters can also rid the environment of allergens such as pollen, dust, mold and mildew.
You can also try doing some breathing exercises. They will be useful during an allergic attack, which can severely narrow the airways and make breathing difficult. Yoga is an effective pain reliever that can also teach you proper breathing techniques. Acupuncture is another alternative treatment for allergies. The main purpose of using acupuncture is to maintain balance in the body, which can make it more resistant to disease.
Regular cleaning to keep your home free of dust and mold is the most practical solution to allergies. There are many chemicals for mold and mildew, but read the labels to make sure there are no items that can also cause an allergic reaction.
Prevention is still the best treatment for allergies. Find out the causes of your allergies by seeking medical help and following your doctor’s instructions to cure the allergies.
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