Allergies range from mild seasonal to severe allergies that cause severe reactions. People can have allergic reactions to various substances, including many foods, medicines, or plants. Also, the foods that normally cause allergies are milk, eggs, wheat, peanuts, fish or shellfish. Therefore, even if your allergy is mild, it is essential that you know how to prevent and treat it.
What is an allergy?
An allergy is a reaction of the immune system to a substance that is not harmful to most people. People who have allergies are often sensitive to more than one thing. In addition, the substances that usually cause the most reactions are pollen, dust mites, mold spores, insect bites or certain medications.
On the other hand, the immune system tends to fight germs. It is the body’s defense system. However, most allergic reactions respond to a false alarm. Allergies can cause a number of symptoms such as sneezing, itching, rashes, asthma, or even edema (swelling).
Take an antihistamine
If your reactions are mild, an antihistamine may help you control your symptoms. However, you should go to the doctor to prescribe the most appropriate antihistamine. Remember that although most are freely sold in the pharmacy, many of these drugs have a concentration that requires a prescription.
On the other hand, some people are sensitive to certain ingredients or medications, so you should make sure that you can take the antihistamine without risk.
Treat hives with a hydrocortisone cream
There are several creams (both brand-name and generic) that contain hydrocortisone, an anti-inflammatory that is used to reduce redness and itchiness of the skin. Likewise, it helps to relieve burning and pain.
However, like antihistamines, some hydrocortisone creams require a prescription. If a cream does not relieve symptoms, you can ask your doctor to prescribe a stronger dose. Another option is to put a cold towel on the hives if you cannot buy a hydrocortisone cream.
Identify severe symptoms
Depending on the allergy, the reaction can start with severe symptoms and gradually become more severe or start immediately. Serious symptoms include lip swelling, shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, low blood pressure, difficulty swallowing, nausea, vomiting, vertigo, and loss of consciousness.
Avoid triggers
You may know that some substances cause allergic reactions. Therefore, you should do everything possible to avoid that allergen. Sometimes it can be simple, like avoiding a specific food. However, when it comes to pets, the house should be cleaned very regularly to avoid triggers.
Likewise, if you are allergic to dust, you will have to remove rugs, especially in the bedroom. Clean the house regularly with a vacuum cleaner and wear a dust mask while you do. Use dust mite sheets and covers and wash all bedding frequently in hot water to reduce allergens.
