Sometimes, your immune system can freak out over completely harmless things such as pollen, certain food, mold or animal dander. That kind of reaction is an allergy and the harmless things triggering them are allergens. Allergies can be life-threatening. If you have a dangerous allergy, here is some tips you can use to live safely with it.
Avoid getting bitten by insects
When you are allergic to venom from insects, outdoor activities can become much more dangerous than they normally are. You can avoid bites and stings by:
- Do not use perfumes, or deodorants, and lotions with fragrance.
- Do not walk barefooted outdoors.
- Drink with a straw out of a soda can.
- Do not wear bright, patterned clothes.
- Cover your food when eating outside.
Be aware of your drugs
Certain medications can cause acute allergic reactions. As a result, if you have any drug allergy, inform your doctor about it. If you are allergic to penicillin, similar antibiotics such as amoxicillin can trigger your allergy as well. If the use of your drug allergen is unavoidable, you doctor can give you a prescription of corticosteroid or antihistamines to relieve the reactions. Other drugs causing an allergic reaction are insulin, anticonvulsive drugs, and sulfa drugs.
Pay attention to your food
There are many common food triggers that can cause severe allergic reactions in some people. Potential allergens are sometimes in ingredients in foods. They are including milk, eggs, soy, and wheat. Other harmless foods can become dangerous due to cross-contamination. It occurs when the foods come into contact with an allergen before getting consumed. Potential sources of cross-contamination are seafood and nuts. Moreover,if you are eating in a restaurant, do not hesitate to ask detailed questions about ingredients and inquire substitution
Be prepared
Let your family and friends know your allergy, and tell them carefully what to do if there is an emergency. You can buy a medical ID bracelet and write your allergies in it. If you are going to do something outdoor, never go alone. Always bring an epinephrine auto-injector with you. Finally, put a medical emergency number on your speed dial, and keep your phone close all times.
The only certain way to prevent a severe allergic reaction is to avoid your triggers, which is next to impossible. However, you can still reduce your risk with knowledge and preparation.
Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnose or treatment.
