If you've experienced itchy eyes, post-nasal drip, and a running nose, then you know how uncomfortable allergies can be. Occasional allergies can be ignored, but chronic or seasonal allergies can seriously degrade your quality of life if left untreated. Allergies can develop at any point in your life, even if you're an adult and you've had no history of allergic reactions. If you suddenly start having allergy symptoms, these tips will help you manage your allergies:

1. Visit an ENT specialist.

It can be difficult to pinpoint the exact cause of your allergies, which makes it hard to stay away from your triggers. If you seem to develop an allergic reaction no matter what you do, you should pay a visit to an ENT specialist. A doctor who specializes in allergy diagnosis and control will be able to perform allergy testing on you. There are two main types of allergy testing — skin prick tests and blood tests. Your allergist will decide which test is right for you, and when they receive the results, they will be able to tell you exactly what triggers your allergies.

2. Take advantage of over the counter treatments.

Mild allergies can be treated without a prescription. You can find several varieties of antihistamine at your local drugstore. Diphenhydramine is useful for combating acute allergy symptoms, but it can make you very drowsy. There are also 24-hour allergy pills that provide relief all day without inducing tiredness. If your symptoms are localized to your eyes or nose, you can try eye drops and nasal sprays formulated to soothe itchiness.

3. Stay aware of possible triggers.

Allergy medicine can treat your symptoms once they've already started, but avoidance is still the best technique for dealing with allergy triggers. Take note of the places you're likely to encounter allergens that bother you and try to stay away from those places. If you're allergic to pollen, stay indoors when there is a high pollen count outside. If you're allergic to pets, avoid visiting friends' and relatives' homes if they keep pets in the house.

4. Consider allergy shots.

Sometimes, it's impossible to get away from common allergens no matter what you do. If you suffer from severe allergies, allergy shots can desensitize your body and make your symptoms more bearable. Allergy shots work by introducing a small amount of the allergen into your system. With regular shots, your allergies will reduce in severity so you can be less reliant on other medications.

For more information, contact a center like the Mid America Ear, Nose, & Throat Clinic PC

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