5 Tips To Manage Allergies on a Daily Basis

Perhaps, if you’ve ever woken up with itchy eyes, a stuffy nose, and an irritated throat, signs are—it might be an allergy. In fact, allergies are way more common than what you may think. Did you know almost 25 percent of adults and 20 percent of adults in the U.S. alone suffer from allergies every year? On a global level, nearly 30-40 percent of the population experiences some kind of allergic disease. 

These figures are indeed staggering! This is the reason why managing allergies has become more important than ever. 

But does it need to feel overwhelming? Of course not! 

Here are some helpful tips to manage allergies on a daily basis and take control of your health a little easier.

The fact is—home is a place where you relax. But it's quite easy to become the main space for allergens. And dust, mold, and pet hairs are perhaps the most common allergens invading the indoors. 

The best way to keep rid of allergens is to vacuum regularly using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter, as these filters can easily trap allergens instead of spreading them into the air. Simultaneously, you can also look for an air purifier for your bedroom and living room. 

The pro tip is to wash your bedding too regularly in hot water to kill those dust mites that might be triggering your allergies.

Seasonal allergies, typically caused by pollens, are particularly common during the spring and fall seasons. However, staying alert can really make a big difference. 

One of the best approaches is to keep track of pollen levels using pollen forecasts and, more importantly, stay indoors, especially during the peak hours such as early morning. 

Besides, sometimes, keep your windows closed. Even though fresh air always feels nice, closing it during peak hours would ensure you don't invite unnecessary allergens into your home. 

If you have food allergies, the fun fact is certain foods can actually help you alleviate your allergy symptoms. Yes, foods rich in vitamin C, such as oranges and broccoli, work as natural antihistamines. 

Besides, if you are allergic to nuts, shellfish, or dairy, the better approach is to avoid those triggers completely and always look for labels to reduce any chances of cross-contamination that may trigger an allergic reaction. 

Did you know probiotics have been proven to strengthen your immune system and reduce allergic responses? So, try incorporating probiotic-rich foods, such as yogurt or kefir, into your diet. Lastly, don't forget to drink lots of water, as hydration helps in flushing out all the allergens from your body.

If you feel like living with allergies always means staying indoors, certainly not! Instead, with some smart tips, you can actually manage your allergies. You can carry a kit including antihistamines, eye drops, and tissues, and for severe allergies, never leave your home without carrying an epinephrine auto-injector. Ultimately, make sure you take a shower after every outdoor activity to remove pollen or dust from your skin and hair.

Managing allergies has never been easier with technology. Nowadays, you can easily track real-time pollen counts, weather updates, and symptoms with apps such as Zyrtec AllergyCast or WebMD Allergy to help you prepare for the day ahead. 

You can even set reminders on your smartphone to remind you to take allergy medication, ensuring you never miss a dose. 

If you have food allergies, apps such as Food Maestro or Spoon Guru can help you scan food labels for allergens so you can make better and safer choices.

Allergies can feel overwhelming. While allergies may not have a complete cure, managing allergies is indeed possible with the right approach, and you can go about your day with fewer interruptions. After all, small changes can lead to big improvements.