Many Arizonans in Surprise are struggling with allergies. There is no doubt that allergies can be a big problem, and the allergens in your home or workplace can make life miserable for you. But with some careful management of your environment, it’s possible to reduce the allergic response significantly without resorting to medication. Allergies are caused by airborne particles which come from either plants or animals. To manage them effectively, you need to identify what triggers your allergy and then find ways of eliminating those triggers from your environment. Most importantly, visit a Surprise allergist.
What Are Allergies?
Allergies occur when your immune system becomes overactive and responds to particles in the environment. The most common form of allergy is hay fever, which occurs mainly during the summer months and is brought on by pollen released into the air by plants. Pollen is a rich source of protein, and it’s this that triggers an allergic reaction.
What Causes Allergies?
The proteins in these particles set off the release of histamines, substances that cause a runny nose, itchy eyes, and watery skin. Although most common during hot summer months, allergies can also be triggered by other stimuli, including dust mites, animal fur, and insect stings. When the body detects these allergens, they cause what is known as an “immune response,” which results in inflammation, swelling, and irritation of surrounding tissue.
The Two Types of Allergy
Depending on the type of protein that triggers your allergies, you may be susceptible to one or both types. The two major classes of allergens are known as “Tropomyosin proteins” and “Phl p 5 proteins.”
Type 1 (Tropomyosin Allergies) affects people with asthma, hay fever, or both. It is estimated that at least 30 million Americans have Type 1 allergies, making it one of the most common types of allergies.
Types 2 (Phl p 5) affect people who suffer from pet dander allergies. Phl p 5 proteins are found in pets’ urine, saliva, and skin flakes, including cats, dogs, mice, and rodents. Although they can be carried on humans’ clothes or hair for some time after contact, it is doubtful to affect more than one person in the household.
What Action Should I Take?
Allergy symptoms can usually be controlled by taking antihistamines, but these are not recommended for long-term use because of potential side effects. You can do several things to help reduce your exposure to allergens, and many of these are relatively inexpensive and straightforward.
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water to reduce the possibility of spreading allergens to other household members.
- Vacuum regularly, especially if you have pets in the home.
- Try keeping the areas where you spend most of your time clean and dust-free.
- Keep the humidity down to reduce the risk of mold spores.
- If you can, avoid solid perfumes or heavily scented cleaning products that may trigger allergies.
- Choose water-based paints instead of oil-based paints, which release more allergens.
- Ensure there is adequate ventilation in all rooms.
Allergies are a common problem that can be managed effectively by taking simple steps to reduce exposure to allergens. By following the tips we’ve provided, you can help keep your environment clean and free from potential triggers. If you are still experiencing problems, please consult your doctor for advice on best managing your allergies.
