AVOIDANCE
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The first step in allergy treatment is avoidance. The degree of difficulty in achieving total avoidance depends on the kind of allergy. Allergy skin testing will help show a person’s allergens. Dr. Tamayev has included a list of major allergens, their exposure risks and what to do to avoid them.
Exposure
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Absolute avoidance of pollen exposure is impossible
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Pollens are airborne and effect you when you are outside or when the doors or windows are open
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Avoidance
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Air your home in the evening after dew fall
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Do not use window fans which can draw outdoor pollens and molds into the home
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Dry clothes in the dryer instead of outside
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Get someone else to rake leaves
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Keep car windows closed when driving
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Keep windows closed at night. Use air-conditioning instead which cools, cleans and dries the air
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Refrain from watering indoor plants if you are allergic to mold
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Stay away from fresh-cut grass
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Take a vacation during the height of pollen season to an area with a lower pollen count, like the beach
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Try to stay indoors when the pollen count or the humidity is high, and on windy days when pollen and molds blow around
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Learn more about Pollen Allergies
Exposure
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House dust mites live in bedding and feed on dead human skin.
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They need a humid, hot climate
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Avoidance
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Avoid storing items under the bed, and place dust collecting items in enclosed bookcases away from sleeping areas.
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Central air conditioning is a good way to filter and cool indoor air
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Cover mattresses, box-springs and pillowcases of allergy sufferers in impermeable encasing.
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Keep the air of the house relatively dry and cool, with humidity less than 40% if possible and temperature below 70 degrees.
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Replace carpeting by hardwood, vinyl or tile flooring, and washable throw rugs
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Replace old mattresses and pillows.
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Use dehumidifiers to remove excess moisture from indoor air, especially basements. Empty the water and clean often to prevent mildew from growing.
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Wash sheets, comforters and pillows in hot water (>130 degrees F) weekly.
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Wash stuffed animals in hot water or wrap them in plastic bags and put them in the freezer for at least five hours once each week or put them in a hot dryer.
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Read more about Dust Mite Allergies
Exposure
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If house pets have been present or are now present in the home, house dust will contain large amounts of animal dander
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Furry animals outside of the home may cause problems. Examples include horses and laboratory animals such as mice, rats or guinea pigs.
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Avoidance
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Cover mattresses, box-springs and pillow cases of allergy sufferers in impermeable encasing
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Keep pets out of the bedroom
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Keep pets outdoors
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Open the windows and ventilate the house; air exchange can decrease airborne pet allergens
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Place pets in another room
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Replace carpeting
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Use a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) cleaner in the bedroom of the allergy sufferers to keep the air dander free
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Learn more about Animal Allergies
SUMMARY
If you need help with your allergies, Dr. Tamayev can help. Dr. T has access to the latest testing and treatment, and can also find relief for your asthma, ear, nose, and throat (ENT) symptoms, skin conditions, and respiratory allergies. Dr. T sees both adult and pediatric patients. Use the book online button below to schedule an appointment today!
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