What substances cause allergies?
An allergy is a hypersensitivity your immune system has when it is exposed to certain substances. Substances that we react to the most include:
- Pollen
- Dust mites
- Mold
- Pet dander
- Insect stings
- Certain foods
- Certain medicines
Allergy reactions include a runny nose, sneezing, itching, rashes, or wheezing. Things that can increase allergy symptoms include:
- Smoking
- Cold temperature
- Humidity
- Wind
- Aerosol sprays
- Wood smoke
There are certain steps you can take to lessen the allergens around you:
- Avoid pollen
- Shower before going to bed
- Avoid going outdoors especially on windy days
- Keep windows shut
- Avoid mold
- Remove household plants
- Bleach or remove shower curtains with mold
- Don’t keep carpet in bathrooms
- Use mold-proof paint rather than wallpaper
- Use a dehumidifier and keep home temperature around 70 degrees
- Clean or replace air filters in your home
- Pet dander
- Keep pets outside if possible
- Shampoo indoor pets every 3-5 days
- Use allergen-resistant bedding or keep pets out of bedrooms
- Dust mites
- Decrease the amount of upholstered furniture
- Replace carpet with wood, laminate, or linoleum floors
- Vacuum regularly
- Wash carpet and furniture with special cleaners such as benzyl benzoate
- Wash bedding in hot water
- Use plastic covering on pillows and mattresses
- Lower the humidity in your home with a dehumidi