Environmental Allergies
With environmental allergies, reducing your exposure to whatever is irritating you is key. Some people are allergic to household cleaners such as laundry detergent, hence the many varieties of mild detergent. With common irritants like mold and dust, a cleaning routine can help. Reduce mold by removing houseplants, using a dehumidifier, avoiding carpet in the bathroom and cleaning indoor trash cans and shower curtains with a mix of water and chlorine bleach. Reduce dust by replacing carpets with wood or linoleum, removing drapes and feather pillows, regularly vacuuming soft furniture and floors, and washing bedding weekly.
Recently Answered
- Q How does immunotherapy treat environmental allergies?
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Immunotherapy is also known as allergy shots. Immunotherapy works by exposing your body to regular injections of an allergen. The goal is to desensitize your body and lessen your reaction to the allergen. The shots are usually given for between three and... Full Answer
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- Q What is an allergic response?
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A allergic response is a hypersensitive immune reaction to a substance that normally is harmless or would not cause an immune response in most people. An allergic response may cause harmful symptoms such as itching or inflammation or tissue injury.This... Full Answer
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- Q Which children are at a higher risk for a latex allergy?
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Some children may be more likely to become allergic to latex than others. These children tend to have one or more of the following characteristics: Multiple operations since birth Spina bifida Birth defects of the genito-urinary system Food... Full Answer
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- Q Can I be allergic to cockroaches?
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Droppings and remains from cockroaches may cause an allergic reaction and asthma symptoms in some people. Full Answer
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- Q What should I know about mold allergy if I have asthma?
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If you have asthma, inhaling mold spores may trigger symptoms of asthma as well as symptoms of allergies. In certain cases, the reaction to mold may be severe enough to cause a serious asthma attack. As with most mold allergies, the best way to prevent... Full Answer
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- Q How does mold allergy affect the body?
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When someone with a mold allergy inhales mold spores, the immune system releases histamine, which causes tissues to swell. This inflammation leads to a variety of symptoms that affect the respiratory system, sinuses, and eyes. If you have asthma, a mold... Full Answer
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- Q What are the possible side effects of my mold allergy medication?
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For mold allergy, the most effective treatment option to relieve symptoms without causing side effects is usually a nasal spray that contains a corticosteroid. These medications are commonly prescribed because they usually help relieve symptoms within a... Full Answer
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- Q Can a dehumidifier help my mold allergy symptoms?
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Doctors recommend that people with mold allergy use a dehumidifier in their homes. A dehumidifier is an easy and effective way to reduce the amount of humidity and moisture in your home, especially in high-humidity areas like basements and bathrooms.... Full Answer
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- Q Are houseplants bad for mold allergy symptoms?
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Mold allergy patients are often advised by doctors to remove any houseplants they keep at home or at work. Though the plants themselves may not pose a threat, the related soil and containers may cause mold allergy symptoms. Because the soil in potted... Full Answer
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- Q Can using synthetic materials help my mold allergy symptoms?
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Synthetic materials are much less likely than natural fibers to attract and hold mold spores within your home or workplace. Whenever possible, use synthetic fabrics for things like clothing, bedding, furniture covers, and curtains. Examples of synthetic... Full Answer
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