April 20, 2009

Health Tip: Keep Allergy Symptoms Under Control

(HealthDay News) -- When spring has sprung, so have all kinds of allergens. Blooming trees and flowers may lead to sneezing, coughing and watery eyes. But you don't have to let allergy symptoms keep you from enjoying spring.

The American Academy of Family Physicians offers these suggestions to help manage your allergy symptoms:

• Medications such as over-the-counter antihistamines, decongestants, eye drops or nasal sprays can help prevent and ease symptoms.
• Consider regular allergy shots.
• Always take a shower when coming in from the outdoors, especially before you go to bed.
• Help keep your home free of mold by frequently and thoroughly cleaning bathrooms, shower curtains and anything else that tends to get moist. Use a dehumidifier to limit humidity to less than 50 percent, if possible.
• Limit exposure to pets if a family member is allergic to them.
• Limit fabrics, which can attract dust. Where possible, eliminate fabric curtains or drapes, and replace carpet with wood or tile floors.

-- Diana Kohnle

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