Allergy Treatment Guide
Kelly Gillis
Allergy can be described as a malfunction of the immune system,
an exaggerated response to certain substances. Allergies come in
all different shapes and sizes, some as benign, but bothersome
as the sneezing, wheezing, coughing and watery eyes brought on
by pollens, and some whoppers that can actually bring on
anaphylaxis and anaphylactic shock and death such a bee stings.
Allergic symptoms can be brought on by many different things.
Some environmental allergens are seasonal pollen such as
ragweed, mold, dust, dander from household pets. Others can be
brought on by foods, such as nuts or shellfish, and some by
medications (prescription or over-the-counter).
If you have a family history of allergy you will have a greater
risk of acquiring one yourself. The first and foremost way to
avoid an allergy is of course to avoid the cause of the
allergy. Sometimes avoidance isn't enough and medications are
needed.
If you are interested in treating the symptoms of an occasional
allergy (such as seasonal pollen) an over-the-counter
antihistamine and an over-the-counter nasal spray are generally
the combination suggested by most doctors. These will give you
temporary relief for 12-24 hours, depending on the ones you
choose. Please check for side-effects carefully. These drugs
stimulate the nervous system and can cause insomnia,
palpitations, nervousness and irritability. If you have a
condition such as high blood pressure check with your doctor
before taking any over-the-counter medication.
For some who don't obtain relief from other medications, or who
have more numerous or serious allergies, allergy shots are
recommended. After a consultation and a skin patch test a
vaccine is custom made for the patient. The allergy vaccine
will actually contain a small amount of the allergens that
tested positive. These shots are given frequently at the start
of treatment, generally 1-2 times a week for 6 months, then
once a month. Maintenance shots are given for 3-5 years then
stopped altogether. Your doctor will decide your schedule. Not
everyone is a candidate for allergy shots. Your doctor will
review your medical history with you to see if you can safely
receive them.
Some seek a gentler and more natural way to allergy relief with
the use of vitamins, supplements and herbs. Believers see this
natural path to allergy treatment as actually strengthening the
body. Vitamins C, B5 A, B12, E and Omega 3 can be taken to help
reduce allergy symptoms. Honey can be used to prevent hay
fever. Some say washabi taken every day prevents hay fever.
Please remember that herbs can have interactions with
over-the-counter medications and prescription medications and
check with your doctor before starting any course of therapy
for your allergy.
About The Author: This article courtesy of
http://www.allergy-treatment-guide.com
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