5 tips for managing allergies
Before we even get into our top five allergy tips, Step 1 is understanding what causes your allergic reactions.
Determining this may be as simple as having allergy testing done through your local pharmacist or GP.
Alternatively, build your own diary of allergic reactions and possible causes, which over time is likely to reveal your specific allergy triggers.
You may be allergic to pollen, mould spores, pet dander, dust-mites, a combination of these or something else entirely, so it may take some time to identify all of your allergens.
Once you have got to grips with your allergens, then AVOIDANCE is your “GO-TO” strategy – see our top five tips below:
Whilst avoidance may sound like it’s easier said than done, and in many cases may be totally impractical, avoiding your allergens as much as possible makes simple common sense. Here’s how:
1. If you are a pollen or mould spore sufferer, then check your pollen counts daily on the internet. Staying indoors as much as possible on high-count days can help tremendously. Air-conditioned environments like your car and home – especially those with high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters - can give you added protection.
2. If you need to be outside, wearing a simple face/dust mask (available from most pharmacies) will help. If possible, stay indoors on dry windy days. Pollen counts are always reduced after a good rainfall, which is a good time to be out and about.
3. Dust proofing your home: Remove dust mite hideouts such as wall-to-wall carpeting, venetian blinds, down blankets, feather pillows, cupboards full of clothing and general clutter. In the bedroom, remove items such as upholstered furniture, stuffed animals, carpeting, and draperies. Encase pillows in dust-mite proof casings. Wash bedding weekly in hot (130 degree plus) water. Vacuum your floors regularly with a machine using either HEPA filters or a double-bag filter system.
4. If your beloved pet is the cause of all your allergy woes, then bathe and brush your pet weekly. Wear a face mask when cleaning or handling your pet or when cleaning kitty litter, and thoroughly clean the area afterward.
5. Avoid exposure to chemicals, fumes, tobacco smoke, air pollution, pool chlorine etc. These irritants can trigger nasal congestion and make your allergic reaction worse.
Finally, prevention is always better than cure. Nowadays, there are allergy treatments that are not only fast acting, safe for children and non-drowsy, but can also reduce your allergy sensitivity too.
*To stand a chance of winning a month’s supply of Singal-G, give us your tip on how you deal with your allergies. Leave your comment below. Sinal-G is a multi-functional herbal syrup, indicated for use by patients with acute sinusitis (rhinosinusitis), as well as for patients suffering from seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis.
