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There are many causes of allergies. Some people are allergic to foods such as
nuts, chocolate, and shellfish, some to medicines. Some suffer from allergies to
animal dander such as cats, some from seasonal allergies such as pollen in the
springtime or ragweed in the late summer and fall. Some allergies bring on
contact dermatitis in the form of hives or eczema.
The one thing all
these allergies have in common is that there is no cure for any of them. Aside
from allergies that are severe or bothersome enough to warrant allergy shots
(immunotherapy) most people treat their allergy symptoms as they develop with
over the counter antihistamines and decongestants.
75% of Americans who
suffer from allergies are allergic to ragweed. Ragweed is the late summer early
fall equivalent of springtime allergies, both are brought on by pollination of
flowers. Most medical professionals suggest an over the counter decongestant or
antihistamine to treat the symptoms associated with seasonal
allergies.
15% of Americans suffer from allergies to cats and/or dogs.
There are ways to lessen the symptoms. Keep animals off of beds or any
upholstered furniture as dander (the actual allergen from the skin of animals)
can be transferred this way. Room purifiers will help remove the airborne
dander. If possible remove any wall to wall carpeting. Linoleum, ceramic tile or
wood flooring are best in a home with an allergy or asthma sufferer. A vacuum
with a HEPA filer will help to further trap dander in carpeting. Pets can be
washed weekly with shampoo formulated to remove dander.
It is said that
11 million Americans suffer from some type of food allergy. The symptoms of food
allergy range from tingling in the mouth to swelling of the tongue and throat to
more severe reactions that can actually result in death.
In the case of a
food allergy it is best to have allergy testing performed by a professional.
Some with food allergies suffer the risk of an unbalanced diet due to the need
to avoid certain types of food. It is suggested that working with a nutritionist
to create a sound and healthy diet is best. Some childhood food allergies go
away with age. However, allergies to peanuts, fish, shellfish and nuts are
considered lifetime allergies.
Skin allergies, or contact dermatitis is
generally avoided by avoiding the allergen. Contact dermatitis can be caused by
many different things and can be related to seasonal pollen allergy, animal
allergy or food allergies. Most outbreaks of contact dermatitis result in skin
outbreaks and hives which can be treated with over the counter antihistamines
and topical creams.
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