In the United States, allergies are the sixth-leading cause of long-term illness. Anyone can be affected by them, but they’re usually genetic. In other words, you’re more likely to develop allergies if your biological parents have them.
Allergies are our body’s reaction to foreign proteins called “allergens.” Usually, these allergens are harmless and mild. However, there are cases when they get extreme and may end up fatal.
For example, severe allergies can result in anaphylaxis. It occurs when allergic swelling worsens, causing the throat to close and preventing air from passing through. If swelling continues to restrict airflow, it can cause someone to fall unconscious.
To avoid life-threatening situations, here are five tips on how to treat allergic symptoms as soon as possible:
Take Medications
Antihistamines are the most common way to treat allergies. They reduce our body’s production of histamine, a chemical released by our immune system that has a role in causing allergy symptoms.
Once taken, antihistamines stop all allergic reactions regardless of the cause, including sneezing, watering eyes, and skin reactions. The problem is first-generation antihistamines tend to cause drowsiness, while second-generation antihistamines are less sedating.
Another medication that can treat allergies is a leukotriene receptor blocker/antagonist. Research suggests it’s a better drug for allergic rhinitis than antihistamines since it has no significant side effects.
However, when it comes to prices, antihistamines are much more affordable, costing only $10-$20 for a month’s supply. Singulair tablet price costs nearly $300 for a month’s supply without insurance since it’s a brand name. Its generic version is significantly less pricey.
Besides oral pills, anti-allergy medicines may also be dissolvable tablets, liquids, nasal sprays, and eye drops. However, before using any of these, consult a healthcare provider if you’re pregnant or have an underlying disease, such as a liver disorder.
Use a Cold Compress
A cold compress can alleviate bothersome allergy symptoms, such as swelling, itchy eyes, and a runny nose. The cold temperature can provide a numbing effect on any inflamed area, decreasing allergy-related irritation, itchiness, and swelling.
Don’t put ice directly on your skin. This can likely cause frostbite. Instead, wrap ice in a clean cloth or soak a cloth in cold water. Apply the cold compress on any affected forehead, cheeks, sinuses, or skin. However, don’t do it for a frequent or prolonged period, only for 10-15 minutes at a time, and repeat as needed.
Use Steam
If you’re suffering from rhinitis (a common symptom of allergies characterized by an inflammation of nasal passages), steaming can help. For example, taking a hot shower or bath, inhaling steam through the nose, or using a humidifier or boiling water can open up your nasal passages. As a result, it helps ease or even stop a congested, runny nose.
Try Probiotics
Although more investigation is needed, medical research suggests foods rich in probiotics can help prevent food allergies. It’s found that dysbiosis, which happens when the number of bacteria in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract is unbalanced, has a role in many chronic health conditions, including food allergies.
In other words, food allergies can likely be prevented by repopulating healthy gut bacteria, which can usually be done by intaking probiotics. Probiotics are good bacteria that are naturally found in the following food sources:
- Kefir
- Kimchi
- Kombucha
- Miso
- Natto
- Pickles
- Sauerkraut
- Tempeh
- Yogurt
The problem is probiotics aren’t guaranteed to work. They may take a few days to many weeks to work or not do anything. There are even some cases when they can be harmful. On a positive note, their effectiveness can be improved if you consult a doctor and opt for the right probiotic strain (i.e., a kind of probiotic characterized by its identity, potency, and health benefits) that’s effective in improving your specific allergic symptoms and overall health.
Avoid Triggers
The simplest way to prevent allergic reactions is to be aware of their causes and avoid them at all costs. If you’re unsure of your allergens, seek medical help. Doctors can help you find the cause, ways to prevent, and remedies for your allergy by doing a series of tests to determine certain foods and substances that’ll trigger a reaction.
Additionally, always read and ask about your foods’ contents, whether snacks or meals, before eating them. It’ll be helpful to inform your loved ones, trusted friends, and food stores and restaurants about your allergies, so they can help prevent and treat your allergic symptoms.
If you have a mild allergic reaction to food, don’t underestimate it. It may be mild this time, but there’s no guarantee it’ll stay the same the next. Each symptom can be worse, so it’s for your safety to immediately see your doctor and consult whether it’s better to bring an EpiPen.
Final Thoughts
Although most home remedies and medications for allergies are backed with scientific evidence, always remember to consult your healthcare provider before trying them out. Ensure to take prescribed needed lab tests, get a full diagnosis, and follow the doctor’s instructions.