Allergies are simply an overreaction of the body towards an antigen. For most people, these antigens are normal and the body doesn’t react to them. However, there are some, whose bodies start producing histamines to attack the supposedly harmful antigens.
Grass, pollen, proteins, latex, and some other substances are common allergens which may trigger such overt reactions from the
immune system of a person’s body.
When trying to control an allergic reaction, it is most important to first understand which allergens are causing such reactions. The doctors often perform several tests in order to determine the exact cause of an allergy.
Skin tests, known as scratch test, are common tests that are conducted for identifying allergens.
There are both indoor and outdoor allergens which may affect the body. The best way to control allergies is to eliminate the source of allergies. For instance, for those who are allergic to pollen, it is a good idea to avoid keeping the windows and doors of the house open for extended periods of time. On dry and especially windy days, the doors and windows can be kept shut and air conditioners should be used. A person with allergies should also spend less time outdoors in the autumn season or during a windy day.
Mold is another common allergen which can be eliminated by removing any traces of stagnant water and houseplants. Proper cleanliness should be ensured at all times so that mold cannot grow. Dampness is one of the prime factors in the growth of mold. Therefore, the cleanliness of the bathroom should be given special attention. Sunshine destroys mold naturally. Opening doors and windows can help reduce the growth of mold.
Using carpets in areas where the climate remains humid is a sure shot way of increasing mold in the house. For those who suffer from allergies, carpets and wallpaper should be removed to prevent the growth of mold. Dehumidifiers can also help control the growth of mold to an extent.
A lot of people are allergic to pet dander. For those who have severe allergies of this kind, pets need to be kept outside the house. When pets are indoors, they shed a lot of fur and dander, which gets mixed with the house dust. This dander takes about a month to die down and during this entire period, it can be harmful to those who have allergies. Bathing the pet frequently and using bedding which is hypoallergenic can help you reduce the amount of dander at home. You can also use dehumidifiers and air filters to keep the air clean.