Living with Allergies
Wednesday, April 9, 2008

Life with allergies doesn’t have to be miserable. In today’s 60 Second Housecall, Dr. Ken Davis provides tips that can help you in your fight against allergies.

One in every four Americans suffers from allergies. If you are one of those unfortunate Americans, the most effective treatment for allergies is to avoid contact with whatever you are reacting to. Other than avoidance, here are some things you can do that may help:

Stay inside as much as you can on dry, windy days and in the mornings when pollen and mold counts are highest.

· Avoid chemical irritants like perfume, household cleaners and chlorinated pool water that can increase your sensitivity to inhaled allergens. Cold weather also affects some people’s sensitivity.

· Reduce dust, especially in your bedroom. Try keeping floors and walls as bare as possible and other surfaces free of clutter. Wash bedding once a week and vacuum regularly, and

· Run your air conditioner. It cuts down on airborne allergens and it keeps the air dry, which prevents the formation of mold.

For North Mississippi Medical Center, I’m Dr. Ken Davis.