Preventing and Controlling Allergies

What can you do to prevent allergies?

You can't prevent allergies but you can avoid symptoms by avoiding known allergens.

If you are allergic to common outdoor allergens -- such as pollen, trees or grass -- there are also some simple steps you can take to avoid symptoms and find relief:

• Keep your windows closed or stay in an air conditioned place during allergy season.
• Avoid spending time outdoors when your allergies are acting up.
• Wear a protective allergy mask when you're doing yard work.
• Avoid fresh-cut grass.
• Be especially cautious on windy days.

Controlling Allergies

The first step to controlling allergies is to identify the substances or environmental factors responsible for your allergy. Once identified, take measures to eliminate the allergen from your immediate environment, whenever possible.

Irritation, inflammation, and congestion in the body must be reduced (i.e., with antihistamines, nasal sprays, decongestants, corticosteroids, and other medications ).

In some cases, your doctor may recommend "desensitization" or immunotherapy, a process whereby you are given injections of the allergen in increasing doses so that your body can build up a tolerance to it. This is usually done in cases where the allergen cannot be avoided.

Talk to Your Doctor

If you think you have allergies, talk to you doctor. And be sure to let your doctor know if you are allergic to any medications.

Updated: September 19, 2007

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