If you have allergies, you know they’re no fun! Whether you deal with seasonal allergy symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, or incessant coughing, or you have more severe allergies like hives; you know that allergy attacks are a pain. You may already know what kind of allergies you have, but other times, it is hard to pinpoint the cause. In addition to visiting a Las Vegas allergist, you can learn to recognize triggers that may trigger an allergic reaction. If you’re looking to finally get your allergies under control this season, here’s how.

Visit a Specialist

As with any medical condition, it’s wise to visit a medical professional for an allergy diagnosis. Many things can trigger an allergic reaction, which is an immune system response that makes the body think a common substance like pollen, food, or dander is hazardous. A Las Vegas allergy doctor can tell you for sure what you’re allergic to by doing a skin test or a blood test. This, in turn, will give you some idea of how you can treat your symptoms, whether that means taking medication or avoiding exposure to an allergy-causing substance.

Pollen Allergies

If you suffer from springtime allergies, one of the most likely culprits is pollen. Pollen comes from a variety of sources, including trees, weeds, and plants. Symptoms of a pollen allergy include nasal congestion, sneezing, and itchy, watery eyes. Pollen allergies can be managed with over-the-counter medications, allergy shots, and prescription drugs. However, you can also minimize symptoms by keeping doors and windows closed and using air conditioning (in both your home and car) instead.

Pet Dander

Pet dander, to the disdain of many pet owners, is another common allergen. But even if you are a pet owner, it is possible to keep your furry friend around and avoid an allergic reaction, too! People who are allergic to pet dander react to secretions from the animal’s oil glands or proteins in the pet’s saliva. Since it can take up to two years for a pet dander allergy to develop, you may feel fine at first and suddenly develop symptoms later. To mitigate the effects of a pet dander allergy, consider keeping your pet out of the bedroom or swap carpeting for bare floors, which collect less fur and can be cleaned more easily. You can also bathe your pet regularly. If all else fails, a Las Vegas allergy doctor can administer allergy shots or recommend medications.

Dust Mites

Dust mites are tiny creatures, but they can cause big problems. Dust mites can embed themselves into carpets, mattresses, bedding, and curtains. They thrive on dead skin cells that are shed by humans and animals. Moldy and humid climates are prime territory for dust mites. To keep these pesky critters at bay, be sure to wash your pillows, sheets, and mattresses daily. If you have items in your home that tend to collect dust, such as curtains, carpets, and pets, be sure to wash them regularly, too.

Insect Bites

Insects are another common allergen. Some can cause severe allergic reactions. After getting bitten by an insect that you’re allergic to, you might notice that the area surrounding the bite becomes red and swollen. You may develop systemic symptoms too, such as fatigue and a low-grade fever. In the worst case, you can develop a life-threatening reaction called anaphylaxis. If that happens, you’ll need to visit an allergy doctor in Las Vegas to get medication called epinephrine to stop future reactions. You may also be prescribed allergy shots.

Mold

Mold is another common allergen. It is most prominent in dark, damp areas like your basement and bathrooms. It can also grow outdoors in mulch and grass. A mold allergy can be triggered by inhaling mold spores. Mold allergies can also be triggered in the fall when you’re raking leaves. Since air is the common enemy of mold, the best way to eliminate mold (and reduce the risk of a mold allergy attack) is by keeping fresh air flowing through your home.

Food Allergies

Food allergies can stem from many sources. If you suspect you might have a food allergy, there are several ways to narrow down the options as to what you are allergic to. One of the most basic is creating a food diary. For two weeks, write down every food that you eat and any adverse reactions that you have. Once you’ve identified one or more foods that may be causing a problem, try eliminating them from your diet. If you have more severe reactions, it’s best to visit a doctor to confirm the allergy.

Allergy attacks can range from inconvenient and frustrating to downright scary. When in doubt, and especially if you have a more serious allergic reaction, visit an allergy doctor in Las Vegas for an accurate diagnosis and treatment. But on your own, there are many simple and effective ways to live an allergy-free lifestyle, too.

Contact Tottori Allergy at tottoriallergy.com or 702-240-4233