How Can I Avoid Triggers?
Dr. Storms gives tips on avoiding triggers.
Dr. Storms gives lifestyle advice.
Dr. Storms discusses living with pets.
Avoiding your allergens as much as possible makes sense. If you're not exposed
to the offending substance, you won't have an allergic reaction. Completely
eliminating your exposure probably isn't practical or even possible, especially
if you're allergic to widespread allergens, such as pollen or dust mites. You
can, however, limit your exposure to certain allergens. Here are some actions
you can take:
Stay indoors during high-allergen times. Keep windows closed. Check the
daily pollen and mold counts for your community in the local newspaper, in
weather reports, or on the Internet. If you must be outside, wear a face mask
to filter out pollen and mold. They're available in most pharmacies.
Take an allergen-free vacation. Vacation in an area where there are fewer
allergens or when they aren't at their peak.
Avoid allergen hot spots. If you're allergic to mold, stay away from
areas likely to be moldy that could trigger an allergic reaction—basements,
attics, shady and leafy areas, and summer cabins closed all winter. If you have
to work in an area where mold might be a trigger, wear a close-fitting face
mask.
Dust-proof your home.
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Remove dust mite hideouts such as wall-to-wall carpeting, venetian blinds, down
blankets, feather pillows, closets full of clothing, general clutter, and
so-called "dust catchers"
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Have air ducts thoroughly cleaned to reduce airborne indoor molds and dust
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Encase bedding and pillows in zippered, plastic, dust-proof covers
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Wash bedding weekly in hot water (hotter than 130°F)
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Vacuum only with a special high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter or a
vacuum with a double-filter bag
Avoid furry friends. If you can't bear to part with a beloved pet, bathe
and brush your pet weekly. Wear a face mask when cleaning or handling your pet
or when cleaning kitty litter. Thoroughly clean the area afterward. Or, better
yet, have someone else do these tasks.
Use air conditioners. Use home and auto air conditioners to keep out
molds and pollens. Add special HEPA air filters to air conditioners to reduce
allergens. You can also use individual HEPA cleaners in bedrooms. Follow
manufacturer directions in cleaning filters.
Avoid exposure to chemicals, fumes, tobacco smoke, air pollution, etc. These
irritants can trigger nasal congestion and make your allergic reaction worse.
Next: How Can I Make a
Difference in My Treatment?
