Allergic reactions are common among many people. In fact, 30% of adult Americans and 40% of children suffer from these conditions. Our immune system avoids possible invaders in the body, but in cases where it fights with other substances called “allergens”, allergic reactions occur.
Allergic reactions can range from mild to life-threatening conditions. The good thing is that there are still natural ways to manage them. To learn more about the holistic approach to managing allergic reactions, we have prepared this comprehensive guide for you.
Understanding allergic reactions
Allergic reactions occur when allergens come into contact with the nose, eyes, skin, gastrointestinal tract, and respiratory tract. When the immune system reacts, antibodies are released.
These proteins would signal the cells to stop the presumed “invader”. As a result, the cells will send out histamine, which will cause the blood vessels to respond, leading to allergic reactions.
Different types of allergies include hay fever, food allergies, eczema, medications, and bites. Severe cases of these allergies can lead to anaphylaxis, which can put your body into shock.
Allergy Identification
Symptoms can vary depending on how your body reacts to allergens. The most common include sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, itching, shortness of breath, and chest tightness, among many others.
Of course, you should see a doctor to get a proper diagnosis. In many cases, doctors would prescribe patients antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal sprays such as fluticasone propionate to control symptoms.
If you are a patient with allergic-type asthma, it is common for you to be prescribed an inhaler as part of your treatment. If you reside in the US, you have the advantage of accessing inhaler coupons and discounts from several pharmacies, which can help mitigate costs. Also, for those who need a nasal spray, BuzzRx Coupon Affordable Fluticasone Propionate is a cost-effective option, readily available through their app or website.
How to manage allergic reactions
Check out the valuable tips and advice below to help you manage common allergic reactions.
Avoid allergens
To avoid allergic reactions, you should also avoid allergens that trigger these conditions. Common allergens found in the environment include dust, animal proteins, fungal spores, insect and mite feces, insect bites and stings, pollen, some foods, and medications such as antibiotics and skin products.
To control allergens in your place, make sure you maintain good indoor air quality. To do that, you need to ventilate your area well, use air filters, vacuum once or twice a week, keep pets out of your room, and change filters frequently to prevent pollen from entering your home.
Medication and treatment options
If you are diagnosed with a specific allergic reaction, you should be aware of your options regarding medication and treatment. Some oral antihistamines may be available as over-the-counter medications that can help with mild symptoms, while others are prescribed. Nasal sprays such as azelastine and olopatadine may be prescribed for symptoms such as sneezing, nasal congestion, and runny nose.
For the temporary relief of sinusitis and nasal congestion, decongestants in pill and liquid form may be prescribed. There are also decongestant nasal sprays and drops that may be prescribed for short-term use, as they could cause a recurrence of congestion if used for more than three consecutive days.
You can also opt for natural remedies to alleviate the symptoms. Nasal saline irrigation may help with allergic rhinitis, as revealed in a 2018 review.
A bog plant called butterbur might also be an effective natural oral antihistamine for itchy eyes, according to a 2003 review. According to a 2015 study, acupuncture may be an alternative treatment for perennial allergic rhinitis.
Diet changes and nutritional support
A person’s diet can make a difference in terms of managing allergic reactions. You can include food sources rich in Omega 3 such as tuna, mackerel, salmon and sardines in your meals. It has been proven that foods rich in Omega 3 reduce the probability of asthma and allergies in children. The antioxidants in grapes can also help with hay fever.
Meanwhile, a diet that includes highly processed foods disrupts the gut microbiome, leading to severe allergy symptoms.
lifestyle modifications
Stress can make the symptoms of allergic reactions worse. When you’re stressed, your body releases histamine, which could lead to allergy symptoms. As you get more stressed, your body releases more histamines, leading to severe allergy symptoms.
Allergy symptoms would cause insomnia and fatigue. To avoid all of this, you need to get serious about your stress relief strategies and lifestyle changes. Start by setting a schedule for everything. Make sure you go to bed at night and get enough sleep.
To reduce stress hormones in the body, make time to exercise outdoors or even indoors. Of course, don’t skip your meds. Symptoms are likely to return when you become less compliant with your medications and treatment.
Conclusion
While the symptoms are mild for many, allergic reactions can be dangerous in some circumstances. That’s why you should take proactive steps to control allergic reactions. Of course, always seek professional advice to maintain a healthy and allergy-free life.
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/24742194/350457055_218583294315389_8997521909640967870_n.jpg)