The Best Methods to Handle Allergies

Learn to Recognize the Difference Between Colds and Allergies.

Oct 30, 2009

Allergies can develop later in life and can be treated in a variety of ways depending on their severity with both pharmaceutical and natural methods.

It's often hard to tell in the fall if you have caught a cold or you are suffering from allergies. They have very similar symptoms from a scratchy throat to sneezing to a runny nose and itchy eyes. If you have issues between mid August and mid-October is very possible that a hay fever allergy has cropped up to annoy you. People can develop allergies at any point in their life, so it is often important to consult a medical professional if you are unsure of what is causing your symptoms.

Here are a few important differences between colds and allergies. Allergies can last a very long time, even months, they are not accompanied by fever and your nose will run clear rather than yellow or green. Colds often have other symptoms such as fever, achy body, loss of appetite and tend to only be an issue for about a week. So if your runny nose is a chronic condition; you probably have allergies. (A Cold, or Seasonal Allergies? )

Common Treatments for Allergies

So what can you do if you suffer from allergies? One of the simplest options is not to come in contact with the allergen. This can be very hard to do if you are allergic something outside. However, be aware that pollen has a higher count on days that are not humid and the wind is blowing so you might want to keep your doors and windows closed and avoid extended periods in the park. There are also many over-the-counter medications such as antihistamines, which are quite effective in treating most of the symptoms associated with allergies. An important side effect to consider when taking these medications is that they might cause drowsiness. Nasal sprays also can be a quick form of relief for congestion, but be aware they can also be addictive so don't use them too many days in a row.(Krohn)

Allergy shots can sometimes be the only effective relief that serious allergy sufferers can find. The shots are given once a week or more frequently over a period of 3 to 4 months. This is so you can build a tolerance towards the allergen that is causing the symptoms.(Krohn)

Natural Treatments for Allergies

There are some natural methods that have gained popularity for people who do not like to put chemicals and drugs in their body. Often people who suffer from seasonal allergies also suffer from food allergies. By removing the source of the food allergy, such as dairy products, people can reduce inflammation of their nasal and sinus cavities which reduces the effects of the environmental allergy. There have been some studies into the application of probiotics for allergy treatment but this has not yet become mainstream. Herbs can relieve symptoms such as runny nose and itchy eyes, but do not actually tackle the allergy itself. (Ogle)

Allergies should always be treated in some manner, because allowing them to become severe can seriously compromise your health.

"A Cold, or Seasonal Allergies?" September/October 2005. Medicine Net. 29 October 2009 <http://www.medicinenet.com/scipt/main/art.asp?articlekey=55042>

Buczylko K, Kowalczyk J, Zeman K, et al. Allergy to food in children with pollinosis. Rocz Akad Med Bialymst 1995;40:568-72

Krohn, Jacqueline. Allergy Relief & Prevention. Vancouver, B.C.: Hartley & Marks Publishers Inc., 2000.

Ogle KA, Bullock JD. Children with allergic rhinitis and/or bronchial asthma treated with elimination diet. Ann Allergy 1977;39:8-11.

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