allergy lifestyle tips for patients

Overview

Allergies are your body's immune system having an overreaction to things that are usually harmless, like pollen, dust mites, or certain foods. These things are called allergens. They can make your nose, eyes, lungs, skin, or stomach become swollen and irritated.

Yes. Allergies are common in every country. Around 1 in 4 people will have an allergy at some point in their life.

People of any age can develop allergies, from babies to older adults. They often run in families. Many people start having allergies in childhood, but some develop them later in adulthood.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Sneezing and a runny or blocked nose
• Itchy, watery, red eyes
• Coughing or wheezing
• Rash or hives
• Stomach cramps, nausea, or diarrhea (from food allergies)

Symptoms in children

• Repeated colds that don't go away
• Eczema (dry, itchy patches of skin)
• Ear infections
• Coughing or wheezing after exercise
• Picky eating caused by a sore mouth or feeling sick

Symptoms in older adults

• A runny or stuffy nose that they think is a cold
• Eye irritation and watering
• Coughing or shortness of breath
• Skin irritation from medicines or products
• Loss of taste or smell

Causes

Main causes

• Pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds
• Dust mites (tiny bugs you can't see)
• Pet dander (tiny flakes of skin from cats, dogs, and other animals)
• Mold spores
• Insect stings, like those from bees or wasps
• Certain foods, often milk, eggs, nuts, peanuts, fish, shellfish, soy, or wheat
• Some medicines (ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice)

Risk factors

• Having a parent or sibling with allergies, asthma, or eczema
• Having asthma or eczema yourself
• Living in an area with high pollen or pollution
• Changing seasons or moving to a new climate

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• You have trouble breathing or feel faint.
• You have frequent asthma attacks or a cough that keeps coming back.
• You have signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as throat swelling.

Book a routine appointment if:

• Your symptoms affect your sleep, work, or daily activities.
• You don't know what is causing your symptoms.
• Your symptoms happen often, like every pollen season.
• You need help figuring out whether it is allergies or something else.

Diagnosis

A healthcare provider will ask you about your symptoms, when they happen, and whether anyone in your family has allergies. They may also examine your nose, eyes, and chest. Depending on your symptoms, they may refer you for allergy tests.

Tests that may be done

• Skin prick test: A tiny drop of a potential allergen is placed on your skin and then a small pick is made. If the skin becomes red or raised, you may be allergic.
• Blood test: A sample of blood can measure antibodies to certain allergens.
• Elimination diet: For food allergies, you may be asked to remove suspected foods and add them back one by one, under medical supervision.

What to expect at your appointment

An allergy appointment is usually quick and painless. The doctor or nurse will explain each step. If a test is done, you may have to wait 15 to 20 minutes to see the reaction. You will leave with a written plan for managing your allergies.

Treatment

There is no cure for allergies, but treatment can control symptoms very well. The main approaches are avoiding triggers and using medicines or allergy shots to reduce the immune system response.

Self-care at home

• Keep windows closed and use an air conditioner or air purifier when pollen is high.
• Shower and wash your hair after being outside to remove pollen.
• Use dust-proof covers on your mattress and pillows.
• Wash sheets and blankets in hot water once a week.
• Vacuum and dust regularly, ideally wearing a mask.
• Keep pets out of the bedroom and off the furniture.
• Use a mask when cleaning or gardening.
• Keep indoor humidity under 50% to prevent mold and dust mites.
• Rinse your sinuses with sterile saline after being outside (ask for guidance).

Medical treatments

Your healthcare provider can offer prescription nasal sprays, allergy eye drops, or oral allergy tablets. Some people benefit from allergy shots (immunotherapy), which slowly retrain the immune system to be less sensitive. Always use medicines exactly as directed. Do not stop a medicine without talking to your provider.

Living with this condition

Living with allergies means planning ahead. Check daily pollen counts, know your triggers, and carry any medicines you need. Make your home a safe place by cleaning regularly and keeping windows closed on high allergy days.

Lifestyle tips

• Set a routine for cleaning your home.
• Use a high-efficiency air filter in your bedroom.
• Wear sunglasses when outdoors to protect your eyes.
• Choose plant-free surfaces, like wood floors instead of carpets, if possible.
• Wash your hands after touching animals.
• Keep a diary of your symptoms and possible triggers.

Diet and exercise

Eating a balanced diet can help your body stay strong, but it won't prevent allergies. If you have food allergies, read labels carefully and ask how meals are prepared at restaurants. For exercise, try indoor workouts on high pollen days, like swimming or using a treadmill. If exercise triggers symptoms, talk to your provider.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Allergies can be frustrating and tiring, and they can interrupt your sleep, work, and play. It is normal to feel down from time to time. If you feel overwhelmed, anxious, or very sad, talk to a healthcare provider. You can also call a mental health support line.

Prevention

You cannot always prevent allergies from developing, but you can often prevent or reduce symptoms by avoiding known triggers. There is no proven way to stop allergies from starting, but early diagnosis and lifestyle changes can make a big difference.

Complications

If left untreated

• Persistent nasal congestion that affects sleep
• Sinus infections or ear infections
• Asthma flare-ups
• Worsening eczema
• A serious reaction called anaphylaxis, which is a medical emergency

Long-term outlook

With a good plan, most people with allergies live a full and active life. Many symptoms can be well controlled, and children may even outgrow some allergies. Seeing your healthcare provider regularly can help you stay ahead of your allergy symptoms.

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