You have an allergy when your body overreacts to things that don’t cause problems for most people. These things are called allergens. Your body’s overreaction to the allergens is what causes symptoms (see the box below for a list of symptoms). For example, sometimes the term “hay fever” is used to describe your body’s […]
Pollens. Shower or bathe before bedtime to wash off pollen and other allergens in your hair and on your skin. Avoid going outside, especially on dry, windy days. Keep windows and doors shut, and use an air conditioner at home and in your car.
Mold. You can reduce the amount of mold in your home by removing house […]
Antihistamines help reduce the sneezing, runny nose and itchiness of allergies. They’re more useful if you use them before you’re exposed to allergens.
Some antihistamines can cause drowsiness and dry mouth. Others are less likely to cause these side effects, but some of these require a prescription. Ask your doctor which kind is best for you.
Decongestants, such […]
Allergy shots (also called immunotherapy) contain small amounts of allergens. They’re given on a regular schedule so that your body gets used to the allergens and no longer overreacts to them.
Allergy shots are only used when the allergens you’re sensitive to can be identified and when you can’t avoid them. It takes a few […]
