Spring is a beautiful season, but it can be a challenging time for people with allergies and asthma. The changing weather patterns and plant pollination that occur during spring can lead to severe allergy symptoms and asthma attacks. Many patients need to take extra measures to cope with these conditions to continue to lead a healthy and productive life. Today our internal medicine Bedford TX team (as well as Flower Mound and Benbrook specialists) are sharing 7 ways to more effectively manage spring allergies and asthma flair ups.
#1. Identify Triggers
Identifying triggers and taking preventive measures can help alleviate the severity of allergy symptoms and asthma attacks. Half the battle of managing allergies and asthma is understanding the root cause of allergies and asthma to avoid triggers. Some common triggers include:
- Pollen
- Dust
- Animal dander
- Specific weather patterns
- Tobacco smoke
- Mold
#2. Take Medication
We know it might sound like a given, but many patients struggle with remembering to take their medication. If you or a loved one lives with spring allergies and asthma, you should make every effort to take medications as prescribed by their doctor.
Medications such as antihistamines, corticosteroids, and bronchodilators can alleviate allergy symptoms and asthma attacks. Both caregivers and patients should have an action plan in place to know when and how to take their medication in case of emergencies. Consider setting an alarm on your phone, watch or virtual calendar to ensure you don’t miss your daily dose.
#3. Minimize Exposure
Patients should minimize their exposure to allergens by staying indoors during peak pollen times or using air filters at home. They should also avoid activities that might trigger asthma attacks, such as physical exertion or exposure to chemicals or smoke. If you find yourself in a situation where you are likely to be exposed to allergens, be sure to take precautions such as taking your medication and having your bronchodilator on hand.
#4. Use Allergy Shots
Allergy shots are a long-term treatment option for severe allergies. These shots contain a small amount of an allergen that can help the body build a resistance to the allergen. This process can reduce the severity of allergy symptoms and can even prevent them altogether in some cases. If you have not already been given allergy shots and are interested in learning more, our Bedford doctors accepting new patients (as well as our Benbrook and Flower Mound locations) would be happy to help. Call today to schedule an allergy and asthma consultation.
#5. Practice Good Hygiene
Another simple way to curb allergy and asthma attacks is by practicing good hygiene. People with spring allergies should practice good hygiene to reduce the risk of allergies and asthma attacks. Washing hands often and taking a shower after spending time outdoors can help reduce exposure to allergens on the skin and in the hair.
#6. Track Symptoms
Tracking allergy symptoms and asthma attacks can help patients understand their condition better. Consider recording the severity of your symptoms and what activities or triggers brought about those symptoms. This information can help both you and your doctor create a personalized treatment plan for managing your condition.
#7. Know When to Seek Medical Attention
If you have severe allergies or asthma symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. Ignoring severe symptoms can lead to complications such as respiratory failure or anaphylaxis. Patients should always carry their medication with them and keep a close eye on their symptoms. Be on the lookout for reactions or symptoms such as:
- Nausea, vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Fainting and/or dizziness
- Weak pulse
- Skin reactions
- Rapid pulse
- Low blood pressure
- Difficulty breathing
Internal Medicine Bedford TX
With the right approach, patients can manage their allergies and asthma effectively and continue to lead a healthy and productive life. Whatever your health challenges or goals, we can help. At Your Family Medical, we believe that achieving optimal outcomes for our patients requires building a mutual partnership of trust, understanding and information. We will work together with you to achieve a trusted partnership and excellent outcomes.
