How To Fight Allergies from Home

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What is an Allergy?

An allergy refers to an excessive immune response by the body to a substance that is typically harmless for most individuals. These substances, known as allergens, can provoke an immune system reaction in responsive individuals leading to various symptoms and health issues.

Common allergens comprise pollen, select foods, dust mites, pet dander, insect stings, and certain medications. When an allergic individual makes contact with an allergen, their immune system identifies it as a potential threat and produces specific antibodies known as immunoglobulin E (IgE) in response.

These antibodies proceed to attach themselves to distinct cells like mast cells and basophils which then release inflammatory compounds such as histamine into the bloodstream. The release of these compounds can elicit a multitude of symptoms contingent on the person and the involved allergen, namely: sneezing, itching, nasal congestion, watery eyes, skin rashes, hives, coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, digestive problems, and in severe cases, anaphylaxis - an allergic reaction that is life-threatening and demands immediate medical attention - are all common manifestations of allergies.

Allergies can emerge at any age although they frequently manifest in childhood. The severity of allergies can fluctuate greatly; some individuals experience mild symptoms that they can effectively address while others grapple with more severe reactions that significantly impede their daily lives.

Various diagnostic methods exist for identifying allergies including assessing medical history conducting skin tests or blood tests or sometimes implementing elimination diets. The objective of allergy treatment revolves around managing symptoms and averting allergic reactions from occurring. This may involve avoiding known allergens taking over-the-counter antihistamines utilizing nasal sprays or eye drops seeking allergy shots (immunotherapy) or keeping an epinephrine auto-injector within reach for emergencies.   Seeking guidance from a healthcare professional like an allergist holds paramount importance for securing accurate diagnosis and proficient management of allergies.

The truth is no one wants to have allergies. Imagine suffering from congestion, watery eyes, and runny nose just when you’re in the middle of an important meeting, or a date you’ve been waiting for a long time!

It doesn’t matter if it’s a year-round trigger like pet dander or dust, or a seasonal allergy when the air is filled with floating spores or pollen, you want to prevent these annoying symptoms as much as possible.

But what if there are no meds handy or you refuse to use medications in the first place? This is where natural treatment for allergies can help you out. Here are some options you can consider to experience allergy relief:

Acupuncture

A weak adrenal system is believed to be one common reason for allergies. This is why acupuncture can be used to support these glands. Just make sure you get lots of sleep and exercise after your acupuncture session.

Allergy Relief Diet

The general rule of thumb for an allergy relief diet is to increase your intake of complex carbs and reduce fat. You also need to wash down your meals with half the weight of your body in ounces of water per day.

If your weight is 140 pounds, for example, you need to drink 70 pounds of water every day. Add richly colored green, yellow, and orange vegetables together with cayenne, ginger, and garlic.

You should also try to limit your intake of alcohol, caffeine, dairy, sugar, wheat, and red meat. Studies also reveal that the flavonoid quercetin functions as an effective natural histamine blocker.

It means that foods rich in quercetin including apples, tea, grapes, tomatoes, berries, and the leafy greens mentioned earlier can help you if you’re suffering from allergies.

Herbal Medicines

According to practitioners, certain types of herbal medicines can function as antihistamines or anti-inflammatories. They can also help relieve some symptoms like runny nose or watery eyes. But you have to remember that such medicines must only be taken under the guidance and supervision of a healthcare expert who can tweak doses or gauge effectiveness to avoid unwanted side effects.

Hydrotherapy

Advocates believe that water treatments can help relieve symptoms of allergies as these can flush the congestion buildup out of the body. These hydrotherapy methods can include hot foot baths or cold compresses, depending on the specific allergy type being addressed.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy refers to the practice where you will expose yourself to your specific allergens or triggers to develop immunity to them. Doses of the allergen are either placed under the tongue or injected through a shot.

However, take note that it doesn’t serve as a quick fix. It’s even said that it can take 3 to 5 years before the body becomes immune to the allergen. Allergists often suggest undergoing immunotherapy for patients with multiple allergic sensitivities.

Always consult your physician first before you try any natural treatment for allergies to stay on the safe side and prevent unwanted side effects and consequences. This way, you can be sure that you won’t end up exacerbating your condition.