AVOIDANCE
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
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
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
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.
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.
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
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!