What Is It?
When the body reacts to a foreign substance,allergies occur . As part of the immune system’s response, the body produces antibodies, which often help protect you from disease or infection. This reaction triggers an inflammatory response in the skin, sinuses or respiratory tract.
Prevention Tips
- Always monitor pollen and mold counts. （Check nearby：https://www.pollen.com/）
- Close windows and doors in your home and car during allergy season.
- Stay indoors during midday and afternoon when pollen counts are highest.
- Shower, wash your hair and change your clothes after working or playing outdoors.
Symptoms
- Runny and congested nose.
- Red eyes (allergic conjunctivitis), tearing, itching.
- Feeling tired.
- Sneezing.
- Coughing.
- Itchy nose, mouth, or throat.
- Swollen, bluish skin under the eyes (allergic chalazion).
- Post-nasal drip.
Risk Factors
- Suffering from other allergies or asthma.
- Suffer from atopic dermatitis (eczema).
- A blood relative (such as a parent or sibling) has allergies or asthma.
- Work or live in an environment with regular exposure to allergens.
Self-Care
- Try to avoid allergens, usually pollen counts are highest in the morning.
- Try over-the-counter medications,NOTE: Always follow package directions.
- Fluticasone propionate (Flonase): Helps treat itchy nose, rhinitis and runny nose.
- Antihistamines: such as cetirizine (Zyrtec) and loratadine (Claritin). They help relieve itching, sneezing, and runny nose by blocking histamine, a chemical in the body that causes inflammation and allergic reactions.It may cause drowsiness.
- Decongestants: pseudoephedrine (Sudafed). NOTE: May cause headaches, insomnia, or increased blood pressure.
The information provided here is not intended to diagnose health problems and is not a substitute for consultation with a licensed medical professional. When using over-the-counter medications, be sure to follow the directions on the package.
If you have any other questions,concerns or need to schedule an appointment, please contact Health Services.
