Allergy - Meadow Fescue Tips

Nasal allergy is something that needs proper care and treatment to opt. Nasal allergy is the home to serious health issues, so it is prominent to know the reason behind it. Sometimes people get allergic to dust, tree pollen, some flowers, animal dander or it might be something else which is causing irritation in the nose. Treat your allergies on a priority basis because it is not something which can be ignored. Give a look at the below-mentioned symptoms and know the precautions that can find a way to get you out of this.

1. Nose running: The congestion in your nose can be one of the most common symptoms of nasal allergies. Maintain a distance from the substances which cause irritation in your nose. For instance, if you have nasal allergy from dogs or cats, then washing your hands properly and changing clothes after playing with them can get you rid of a sniffle.
2. Sneezing: The use of antihistamines is very much helpful to get rid of the periodical sneezing, but the follow the instructions provided on the label of the medicine. Over-the-counter pills are really beneficial. Otherwise, keep the miles’ distance from the species and things which cause sneezing. Know the reason behind the sneezing as soon as possible before it takes a serious turn.
3. Eyes’ Itching: If you are annoyed from the watering and itching of eyes, then do not ignore the symptom. Try using a cloth washed with cold water to place on the eyes. Contact lenses should not be adopted. Keep yourself away from the allergy trigger substances. The wearing of sunglasses can also be beneficial so adopt these ways to get the soothing eyes.
4. Postnasal drip: There is a production of mucus in the lining of your nose whenever you are suffering from cold or any other allergic conditions. The thickening of the mucus is the only cause of the post nasal drip. So, opt the saline nasal spray or go for the drinking fluids. To get rid of the lump in the throat and get the pain-free nose without any type of irritation.
5. Sinus pressure: If you are feeling any type of pressure behind your forehead, eyes, and cheeks, then be sure that this is the sinus pressure. Application of warm and wet cloth to your face can be a very good catch. Try using the saline nasal spray or go for the steam inhalation. But, the long time period of the sinus pressure needs the proper care of the doctor so beware of that.

Do not ignore the symptoms mentioned above because a small mistake can cause serious problems. The aforementioned points are also beneficial, but the reference of a doctor can provide the best ways possible. Proper care is necessary to be taken if you want to keep your nose working smoothly. Get the best advice and choose soothing breath for you.

Allergies are an extreme reaction of the immune system of the body due to a hypersensitivity to foreign substances such as food, clothing, dust or pollen, among others. The reaction by the immune system may be quite damaging to your body. The allergies tend to vary vastly from one person to the other and the allergens also tend to differ. Some of the most common types of allergies commonly prevalent among the general population are – food allergies, nasal allergies, dust allergies, skin rashes due to contact with an allergen among others.

Homeopathic approach to treating allergies
Homeopathy is a symptom-based medication and doesn’t only look to treat or lessen the symptoms but also cure the problems from deep down. It is also useful in relieving symptoms as well. Homeopathy takes into account not only the outward symptoms but the general physical and mental constitution of a person to prescribe the best medicine or combination of medications for you.

Some common homeopathic treatments for common allergies are mentioned below:

1. Nasal allergies: One of, if not the most common form of allergic reactions, nasal allergies can be caused by a host of allergens such as dust, pollen, cloth fibers among many others. Some of the common symptoms of nasal allergies are nonstop discharge from the nose, sneezing, itching in the nose and throat, watery eyes among others. Some of the effective homeopathic medications depending on the exactness of the symptoms that may be prescribed by a doctor for your condition are Kali Bichromicum, Arsenic Album, Gelsemium and Allium Cepa. Your doctor will evaluate the exact symptoms you have and only then prescribe either one or a combination of these medications to you.
2. Skin allergies These are another common form of allergies which occur on the skin, mostly due to contact with allergens. Eczema or allergic dermatitis is the most common form of skin allergies. Other problems such as hives may occur where areas of the skin start forming raised, red patches. The skin may also generally swell which can be temporarily relieved by a cold compress. Some of the common medications prescribed in these cases are Sulphur, Urtica Urens and Apis Mellifica
3. Food allergies: Food items are also one of the common causes of allergies. The manifestation of food allergies may occur in four ways, which are Itchy and runny nose with discharges, runny and itchy eyes, and problems with breathing; manifestations on the skin such as hives, swelling or any other form of an itchy rash; gastric issues such as loose stools; bloating, nausea, vomiting and pain in the stomach being the most common symptoms; and some allergies may also cause the mouth, face and lips to swell as well. Some of the most common food allergens are nuts, milk and milk products, seafood, especially shellfish, eggs, wheat. The doctor will study your symptoms and disposition before deciding the best form of medication for you. Some of the common medications prescribed for food allergies depending on the type of food causing the allergies are Carbo vegetabilis, Sulphur, Nux Vomica, Urtica Urens, Lycopodium, Natrum Muriaticum and Colocynth and others
4. Dust allergies: This is by far one of the most common forms of allergies and is caused due to the inhalation of dust. Common symptoms are excessive sneezing, runny and blocked nose and difficulties in breathing. Some of the commonly prescribed forms of medication for such cases are Lycopersicum, Bromium, Arsenic Album
    

Allergies, or allergic reactions, are common occurrences which are caused by unnatural reactions between your body's immune system and foreign substances which have gained access into the body. When these substances, known as allergens, enter your body, your immune system produces antibodies which are responsible for warding off unwanted substances like harmful viruses or diseases and helping in the body's overall resistance.

However, when your antibodies identify a particular allergen as harmful, when it really isn't, a reaction occurs which may lead to inflammation or infection of the skin, sinuses, the digestive tract and the respiratory tract, among others.
Allergies usually differ from individual to individual and can vary from mild skin irritations to fatal life-threatening emergencies.

Symptoms

Symptoms of allergies depend upon a wide range of factors which are subjective and vary from person to person and from allergen to allergen.
Depending upon the type of allergen involved and the nature of the allergy, symptoms may include any of the following:
1.Sneezing
2.Running nose
3.Severe itching
4.Swollen or red and watery eyes
5.Hives
6.Rashes
7.Facial swelling
8.Wheezing
9.Flaky skin which can peel off

These symptoms are common in mild to moderate allergies such as atopic dermatitis, hay fever, drug or food allergies. There are certain rare cases (say, scorpion stings), however, in which the allergic reaction turns out to be potentially life-threatening. This type of reaction is known as anaphylaxis.

Here are its signs and symptoms:
1.Intense shortness of breath
2.Lightheadedness
3.Nausea and vomiting
4.Loss of consciousness
5.Skin rashes
6.Weak pulse
7.A significant drop in blood pressure

Causes
The main cause of allergies is the uncontrolled reaction between the immune system's antibodies and harmless allergens. Allergic reactions are triggered when antibodies, like histamine, come into contact with particular types of allergens.

These may include:
1.Airborne allergens - pollen, mold, or dust mites
2.Insect stings - bee stings or scorpion stings
3.Certain eatables - peanuts or sea food
4.Medications - penicillin or penicillin-based antibiotics
5.Latex or other substances which are responsible for causing allergic skin reactions

Allergies can be difficult to handle and may prevent you from leading a normal life. The problem with allergies is the fact that there is no common trigger. Each person may be allergic to a different substance and it is vital for the patient to figure out what triggers the allergies. In severe forms of allergies, patients may become unable to draw breath, which would need them to be hospitalized.

Here is a look at some common causes for the allergies and the symptoms that such allergies may produce.

Causes of Allergy
Allergy is an autoimmune condition that is caused when the body’s immune system mistakes a foreign object for a harmful substance and attacks it. So, if an individual is allergic to peanuts, their body’s immune system will be on the lookout for the allergen in the blood and will produce antibodies against the same. Common allergens that are known to trigger such a negative reaction inside the body include-

1. Certain food items
2. Contact with certain insects and fleas
3. Airborne allergens
4. Certain medications
5. Certain objects that you touch
6. People with a family history of allergies and asthma are more likely to suffer from such a condition.

Symptoms of Allergy
The symptoms of allergy sometimes differ based on the trigger for the allergies. However, some symptoms are more common than others.

1. Sneezing
2. Inflammation of face and neck
3. Red and watery eyes
4. Runny nose
5. Difficulty in drawing breath
6. Skin rash
7. Anaphylaxis

While most of the other symptoms are relatively easy to handle, anaphylaxis or anaphylactic shock may even be fatal in some cases. Anaphylaxis usually results from food allergies and can cause the patient to go into shock. Loss of consciousness, severe breathlessness, nausea and vomiting during an allergy may hint toward anaphylactic shock.

Role of homeopathy against allergies
Homeopathy bolsters the immune system as a whole and does not try to treat the allergy itself. Homeopathic treatments use natural remedies to treat the condition, which is why there are no chances of side effects from these medications. Topical creams to deal with the skin rash and oral medication to deal with other symptoms are commonly prescribed.

Even though homeopathic treatment takes time to work, it is still a dependable remedy. This branch of medical science believes in like cures like. This means that people allergic to peanuts may be treated by using a diluted form of the same allergen.

Nasal allergies are very common, and as a result, not taken seriously by most people. In most cases you patiently withstand the coughing and sneezing which might last for an entire day and in the process might inadvertently damage your health by choosing to ignore it for the time being.

Here are some of the commonly experienced nasal allergies and what you should do to get relief from them.

1. Runny or stuffy nose
The best option is to just avoid allergy triggers. For example, if pollen is your allergen, then avoid going out during the times pollen count when it is reported to be high. Or, if animals make you sneeze, then make sure to have your hands washed and clothes changed after playing with them. Do not over-use decongestant sprays at all. If these symptoms persist for more than half a week, then it's time to seek your doctor's advice.

1. Uncontrollable Sneezing
Again, the best option is to avoid; but in many cases, it becomes difficult for you to avoid the allergen. In those cases, try antihistamine. If that doesn't work, then you can also go for a nasal steroid spray, but again, make sure to not over-use it.

2. Post Nasal Drip
Usually, you unconsciously swallow your mucus. But, if the mucus quantity increases, it becomes thicker and results in post-nasal drip. It isn't much common, but you can practically feel the mucus dripping into your throat from the back of the nose. It can result in a lumpy feeling in the throat and can cause irritation. You can try drinking more fluids and using a nasal spray to reduce the mucus quantity. If that doesn't work, then it's time to seek doctoral advice.

3. Eyes that itch
Watery eyes that itch are annoying companions of nose allergy and though they might not be a serious hazard for the eyes, you cannot ignore them. Try wearing sunglasses when you go out into a reportedly high-pollen-count weather. It might be a better option to forego contact lenses; they can escalate the entire eye-itching problem. If it becomes too itchy, you can place a cold washcloth over your eyes.

Testing an Allergy

Allergy testing is commonly done by by skin prick test, in order to diagnose the allergens. Once, the allergens are diagnosed, immunotherapy can be stared, which will help in improving the symptoms of and in many cases, it provides complete cure.                 

In reality, dust allergy is precipitated by dust mites, a kind of microorganisms that thrive in the dust. They acquire their food from dead skin cells and absorb water from the environment and thrive. Moist and warm environments are ideal for them to thrive. However, they themselves don’t cause allergic symptoms.

It is the response of the immune system to them that precipitates the symptoms. Once they are inside the human respiratory system, the immune system responds to them in a negative way. This leads to the production of histamines, a kind of protein that abates swelling, cough, mucous production, runny nose, sneezing, etc.

Symptoms of Dust Allergy:

Dust allergies may lead to various symptoms, some of which may be short-lived, while others may be chronic. Some of these symptoms may also be life-threatening. While in general people may suffer from running nose, stuffy nose, sneezing, coughing, itchy eyes, postnasal drip, swollen skin under the eyes, etc., in severe cases, people may also suffer from asthma, chest pain and tightness, trouble in sleeping due to shortness of breath, bouts of severe cough, sinus infection, etc.

Risk Factors:

Some of the common risk factors are: 

1. Family History: People who have a family history of dust allergy are most susceptible to this problem. These people develop a sensitivity to dust mites.

2. Exposure: Exposure to dust mites is the main cause of dust allergy. If someone is exposed to dust mites for a long time, it enhances the risk of allergy symptoms.

3. Being a Child: Children are more susceptible to it than adults. They are more likely to develop allergies during childhood and early adulthood compared to adults.

Diagnosis:

Most dust allergy symptoms are similar to common cough and cold symptoms. This is why it is necessary to confirm that the symptoms owe their origin to dust allergy. As a primary physical examination, the doctor may examine the lining of nasal passage to see if it is swollen.

In case the person is allergic to dust or pollen, the lining of the nasal passage is likely to become inflamed. However, the doctor also needs to conduct some tests. He may conduct skin tests and blood tests to confirm the allergy. If the allergy is confirmed, the doctor goes for treatment.

Treatment:

There are a number of treatment options for dust allergy. Some of these may act as over-the-counter to counter the effects of dust allergy, while others may act as modulators to modulate the immune response.

1. Antihistamines: These are medicines that counter histamines responsible for allergic reactions like itching, runny nose, sneezing, etc.

2. Corticosteroids: Corticosteroids are usually delivered through nasal sprays to bring down inflammation and control the allergic response of the immune system.

3. Decongestants: They help to decongest nasal airways which get inflamed and swell up due to allergic reactions.

4. Leukotriene Modifiers: These medicines block certain immune system chemicals responsible for allergic reactions and prevent allergic reactions.

5. Immunotherapy: The doctor may go for immunotherapy if no other effort is yielding any results. This therapy trains the immune system so that it does not become sensitive to dust mites. It is delivered via injections.

Conclusion:

The primary defense against dust allergy is avoiding breathing in dust. However, if a person is already exposed to them, there are a number of medicines and treatment options to prevent a flare-up.

Allergies are the result of the immune system’s response to foreign objects such as pet dander, pollen, certain foods, bee venom etc. In response to the allergen, the immune system produces antibodies, anticipating that the allergen is harmful in nature, even though that might not be the case always. The immune system can inflame the digestive system, skin, airways or sinuses when it comes in contact with allergens. The severity of allergies can vary from anaphylaxis to a minor irritation. In most cases, allergies cannot be fully cured. It, however, can be controlled with medication.

What are the symptoms of allergy?

1. Various allergies cause different kinds of symptoms.
2. Hay fever can cause sneezing, fluffy nose, itching of the eyes, nose, and mouth, swollen eyes etc.
3. Food allergy can cause hives, mouth tingling, anaphylaxis, body itching etc.
4. Insect sting produces symptoms such as anaphylaxis, cough, swelling on the source etc.
5. Drug allergy can result in a rash, wheezing, swelling of the face, hives etc.
6. Atopic dermatitis often lead to flake, itching, and reddening of the skin.
7. There are other allergies that are triggered either by food or by insect bite. These can lead to a medical emergency known as the anaphylaxis. Some symptoms include skin rash, loss of consciousness, weak pulse, vomiting and nausea, shortness of breath etc.

What are the possible causes of allergy?

1. Air:  A number of allergies occur from the surrounding air. Examples of such airborne allergies include pollen, animal dander, mould etc.
2. Food items: Certain foods are known to be causing allergy such as tree nuts, eggs, peanuts, soy fish etc.
3. Medication: There are medications such as penicillin-based antibiotics that can lead to allergy.
4. Insect bite: Bite from insects such as wasp or bee can trigger an allergy in adults and kids.

What are the possible complications?
Allergy often leads to complication such as asthma, infection of the lungs, sinusitis, infection of the ear and anaphylaxis. The risk of getting these conditions increase, provided no treatment is done for a long duration.

How is the diagnosis done?
To investigate the type of allergy a person has, the doctor might ask for the exact symptoms that a person is encountering. He may ask questions related to intake of food and the possible triggers. A skin test is often performed, followed by a blood test to confirm the presence of allergy in an individual.

What are the methods of treatment?
Depending on the type of allergy one has, a doctor might prescribe nasal spray, eye drops, and pills to reduce the symptoms. Apart from this, if the allergy is severe in nature, a doctor might suggest going for immunotherapy and emergency epinephrine. Certain lifestyle changes and food habits go a long way in cutting down the symptoms.

In case you have a concern or query you can always consult an expert & get answers to your questions!

While some people look forward to spring and the beautiful flowers that bloom, for others this is a time of extreme discomfort triggered by pollen allergies. Pollen is probably one of the most difficult allergies to fight as it is invisible and is literally present everywhere. Sneezing, coughing, a runny nose, congestion and watery eyes are the most common symptoms of a pollen allergy. However, you can minimise your troubles by following a few simple steps.

1. Keep an eye on the pollen count: Not every day has the same amount of pollen in the air. Pollen density is also affected by the time of the day. Pollen count refers to the amount of pollen present in the air during a specific time period. You can find out the pollen count of your area online or through a number of apps. Once you know the pollen count. You can plan your day accordingly and step out or stay in.
2. Plan your time spent outdoors wisely: It isn’t always possible to stay indoors even if you know the pollen count is high. However, you can still plan your time so as to not be outdoors at peak pollen times. 5am to 9am are the worst times to step out as this is when most plants pollinate. Hence avoid stepping out during this time. Windy days can also worsen the situation by spreading pollen around. If you must go for a jog early morning, avoid thoroughfares and gardens and instead pick a route around residential streets.
3. Protect yourself: Face masks may not look very good but can help reduce the amount of pollen being inhaled. If you find yourself sneezing a lot during pollen season, consider investing in a painter’s mask that can filter the air being inhaled and exhaled. If you are stepping out to do yard work or know that you’re going to spend a lot of time in heavy traffic areas, take your antiallergenic medication before you step out instead of waiting for an allergic reaction to begin.
4. Have plenty of showers: Try making it a habit to have a shower and changing your clothes as soon as you come home. This prevents the outdoor pollen from circulating in your home. Follow this routine even if you’ve simply been gardening outdoors. While showering, do not forget your hair. If you do not want to shampoo it every day, simply rinse it out to get rid of all the pollen.

Allergies are caused by unnatural reactions between your body's immune system and foreign substances, which have gained access into the body. When these substances, known as allergens, enter your body, your immune system produces antibodies, which are responsible for warding off unwanted substances like harmful viruses or diseases and helping in the body's overall resistance.

The main cause of allergy is the uncontrolled reaction between the immune system's antibodies and harmless allergens. Allergic reactions are triggered when antibodies, like histamine, come into contact with particular types of allergens. These may include:

1. Certain eatables: Peanuts or sea food
2. Medications: Penicillin or penicillin-based antibiotics
3. Airborne allergens: Pollen, mold, or dust mites
4. Insect stings: Bee stings or scorpion stings
5. Latex: Latex or other substances, which are responsible for causing allergic skin reactions

Symptoms of allergies depend upon a wide range of factors, which are subjective and vary from person to person and from allergen to allergen. Depending upon the type of allergen involved and the nature of the allergy, symptoms may include any of the following:

1. Facial swelling
2. Wheezing
3. Severe itching
4. Swollen or red and watery eyes
5. Hives
6. Flaky skin which can peel off

These symptoms are common in mild to moderate allergies, such as atopic dermatitis, hay fever, drug or food allergies. There are certain rare cases (say, scorpion stings), however, in which the allergic reaction turns out to be potentially life-threatening. This type of reaction is known as anaphylaxis. Here are its signs and symptoms:

1. Nausea and vomiting
2. Loss of consciousness
3. Skin rashes
4. Intense shortness of breath
5. Lightheadedness

Homeopathy effectively deals with any sort of allergy by taking into account individualistic symptoms and thus nipping the root cause in the bud. Natrum Mur, Urtica Urens, Sulphur and Natrum Carb, among others, are very effective medicines against allergies. But these must be taken after due discussion with the doctor as they check out the symptoms and then prescribe the medicine basis that.

An eye allergy or allergic conjunctivitis is a condition that strikes when certain substances irritate the eyes, which can cause a reaction. This reaction has varied symptoms starting from inflammation to watering and even redness and an itching sensation. So how can you tell if you have an eye allergy? This article will tell you all you need to know!

Causes: To begin with, this is an immune response that happens when the eye comes in contact with substances like dirt, grime, pollutants, pollen, nettle, pet hair, smoke, mould and more, which may cause irritation. These are typically known as allergens. The immune system takes these allergens to be invaders and begins attacking the same by releasing chemicals that cause these allergic reactions. Also, an eye allergy may be a symptom or outcome of other conditions like asthma, hay fever, or even eczema.

Symptoms: The eye usually bears a pink or red appearance when the patient is suffering from an eye allergy. Also, watery eyes are a common sight during this condition while scaling around the eyes may also take place. Further, itching and burning sensation may be felt by the patient and swelling or puffiness can be seen. The symptoms may afflict one or both eyes. The patient may also have a runny nose or stuffy nose as well as nasal congestion.

Difference between Eye Allergy and Pink Eye: Conjunctivitis or pink eye is usually caused due to bacteria or a virus that spreads infection in the eye. But eye allergy is caused due to a response of the immune system that leads to an allergic reaction. While the pink eye may be a contagious condition, an eye allergy is not.

Diagnosis: The diagnosis of an eye allergy will be done with the help of various tests conducted by an ophthalmologist. The skin prick test will help in introducing allergens to find out if the spot gets raised or suffers from inflammation. Also, the doctor will check for other ailments like asthma and eczema.

Treatment: There are varied methods of treating this condition. To begin with, the doctor may prescribe medication like decongestants and antihistamines as well as steroids for more severe and persistent cases. Also, injections may be prescribed in order to do away with the allergic reaction and eye drops containing olopatadine hydrochloride may also be used.

Home Remedies: Staying away from allergens and using a warm and clean washcloth over the eyes, for a few minutes every day, may help in relieving the painful symptoms of the condition.

Do not forget to consult your doctor before you try any natural or home based remedies.