What is an allergy? When our immune system reacts to allergen, that is allergy-causing substances, we have what we called an allergy. Under normal circumstances, our immune system protects our bodies from substances that are likely to make us sick, but sometimes the immune system mistakenly considers a certain substance as harmful even when it is not and therefore we develop an allergy and this substance is called an allergen.
An allergic reaction may include skin rashes, inflammatory reactions in the digestive and respiratory system. Different people are allergic to different substances, the allergic reactions also vary.
High blood pressure is also known as hypertension.
It occurs when the heart pumps a lot of blood whereas the arterial walls are narrow. Therefore, the pressure of the blood against the walls of the arteries is very high. This high pressure can cause a lot of health problems such as strokes and heart attacks. This condition can easily be diagnosed and can be controlled relatively easily.
So can allergies cause high blood pressure? No, allergies cannot directly cause high blood pressure. However, they can indirectly increase the blood pressure. Firstly, certain allergy relieving medications constrict the nasal blood vessels. This is helpful in soothing allergic symptoms, but is not helpful for blooding pressure because they can also tighten the blood vessels elsewhere in the body. This constriction of blood vessels makes the heart work harder, that is, it pumps more blood, consequently increasing the blood pressure. Secondly, some allergies can cause breathing problems, especially when one is asleep. This can cause gasping or sleep apnea which can eventually lead to hypertension.
In some cases, allergies may cause muscle spasms or cramps. And these spasms do not go away till the allergen remains in the body. Arterial walls are also made of muscles and just in case they have spasms as well, their circumference may reduce. At the same time, the amount of blood being pumped by the heart does not go down and therefore, this raises the blood pressure. Once the body is rid of the allergens, the muscle spasms also stop and the arteries go back to their original size and the blood pressure drops automatically.
Therefore if one suffers from hypertension as well as allergies, it is important for him to be very careful when picking his anti-allergy medication. More so, the blood pressure medication taken by the patient may not be capable to countering the side-effects of an allergy cure; the side- effect being that of increase in blood pressure. This does not mean that all allergy medications can complicate blood pressure problems. However, it is important to consult a doctor before going for an allergy medication if you are a sufferer of hypertension and are allergic to certain substances. In such cases, it is better to avoid self-medication and also avoid over the counter medication as you may not be aware of their side effects.
Decongestants, notably phenylephrine or pseudoephedrine are known to tighten smaller blood vessels and these are found in many anti-allergy medications or many allergy medications to reduce allergic reactions and symptoms. For instance, if an anti-allergy medication has D at the end of the product name, it is highly possible that it contains a decongestant and therefore it is important to be careful about consuming it. Before doing so, get advice from your health care provider. Decongestants may raise blood pressure. However since they provide immediate relief, they may be useful. Yet, they should not be had for long periods. More so, it is all the more essential to consult a doctor before doing so, since your hypertension medication is not effective against the blood pressure causing effects of a decongestant. A same product may be available without the “D” and this is a safer option for high blood pressure patients because it most probably contains an antihistamine which is safe for hypertension whereas the product with a D in all likelihood contains pseudoephedrine which is a decongestant and may be dangerous.
So what you take if you suffer from both allergies and hypertension? Antihistamines and corticosteroids are better options for hypertension patients. Antihistamines as the name suggests have histamine blocking properties. They may be available in the form of tablets, capsules, nasal sprays and eye drops. As for corticosteroids, they are available in pill form, nasal sprays and eye drops as well. While antihistamines can be found over the counter, the corticosteroids may be bought only under prescription. All the same, whatever be the allergy treatment a hypertension patient opts for; he needs to necessarily check with this doctor before starting the treatment. What may be suited for one hypertension patient, may not suit another hypertension patient.
Neither an allergy, not blood pressure can be ignored, both may lead to serious complications. It is best to discuss treatment options for both conditions with your doctor to prevent further health complications.
Showing posts with label Allergy Prevention Tips. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Allergy Prevention Tips. Show all posts
Foods That Make Your Allergies Worse
An allergy, in normal circumstances, is caused by allergens, that is, something that the body considers foreign. An allergic reaction is a form of hypersensitivity and can range from food allergies, skin rashes, respiratory disorders, and inflammations to hay fever. Fortunately, allergic reactions subside relatively quickly with the appropriate treatment.
However it is important to prevent future allergic reactions since they can be extremely painful and uncomfortable and therefore it is essential to be aware of the foods that make your allergies worse.
Seasonal allergies are very common especially during autumn and spring. For example, pollen from plants, flowers, trees can cause allergies during spring.
Individuals who are very sensitive often avoid going out as much as possible during the allergy season. At the same time what can be is done is to totally do away with certain foods or at least minimize their consumption till the allergy season goes away or if you are suffering from the allergy, till the symptoms reduce. Tomatoes, spinach, celery, avocado and eggplant are some of the few vegetables that have histamines. Therefore, they should be avoided when suffering from a pollen allergy. Pollen from the alder tree can make allergies worse if the allergic individual has peaches, cherries, apples, celery and almonds. As for people allergic to weed and grass pollen, a big no-no to watermelon, bananas, melons, zucchini and cucumbers is a must. Similarly they must also avoid chamomile tea and oranges. For those who suffer from hay fever, the pollen from the birch can also cause allergic reactions. These individuals must also avoid oranges, plums, apples, peaches, nectarines, peppers, prunes, soya, kiwis and hazelnuts and these fruits can increase hay-fever symptoms.
Although slightly different from a seasonal allergy, it is important to make note of the Oral Allergy Syndrome or a Food-Pollen Allergy Syndrome. People suffering from this syndrome have allergic reactions when their immune system mistaken substances in some vegetables and fruits for pollen. This is called cross reaction. It is important to note that allergic reactions may increase if certain allergy causing foods are consumed in their raw state. If they are cooked or canned, their allergy-causing protein is killed and these foods can then be consumed, but it is important to discuss this with your doctor as this may not hold true for all people with allergies. Sometimes peeling the “guilty” fruit or vegetable may also cut down food-pollen allergy reactions. Handpicked fruit and vegetables do lesser harm than foods stored for long periods.
It is important to go easy on milk and milk products such as yogurt, curd and cheese as these have mucus-thickening properties. Clear mucus is essential to get rid of allergens because when it is thick, the allergens stay trapped in the body itself. One may have noticed that often anti-histamines are prescribed to fight an allergy. Therefore, it is but natural that you keep away from histamine foods. Doing away with these foods at least till the allergic symptoms subside is crucial. These foods only add to the amount of histamine already being produced by the body. Therefore their intake should be kept to a strict minimum or stopped completely depending on the severity of the allergic reaction. Apart from tomatoes, avocadoes, celery and eggplant, one must also avoid dried fruits, mushrooms, processed foods, fermented foods. Alcohol beverages such as beer and wine also increase histamine levels.
However it is important to prevent future allergic reactions since they can be extremely painful and uncomfortable and therefore it is essential to be aware of the foods that make your allergies worse.
Seasonal allergies are very common especially during autumn and spring. For example, pollen from plants, flowers, trees can cause allergies during spring.
Individuals who are very sensitive often avoid going out as much as possible during the allergy season. At the same time what can be is done is to totally do away with certain foods or at least minimize their consumption till the allergy season goes away or if you are suffering from the allergy, till the symptoms reduce. Tomatoes, spinach, celery, avocado and eggplant are some of the few vegetables that have histamines. Therefore, they should be avoided when suffering from a pollen allergy. Pollen from the alder tree can make allergies worse if the allergic individual has peaches, cherries, apples, celery and almonds. As for people allergic to weed and grass pollen, a big no-no to watermelon, bananas, melons, zucchini and cucumbers is a must. Similarly they must also avoid chamomile tea and oranges. For those who suffer from hay fever, the pollen from the birch can also cause allergic reactions. These individuals must also avoid oranges, plums, apples, peaches, nectarines, peppers, prunes, soya, kiwis and hazelnuts and these fruits can increase hay-fever symptoms.
Although slightly different from a seasonal allergy, it is important to make note of the Oral Allergy Syndrome or a Food-Pollen Allergy Syndrome. People suffering from this syndrome have allergic reactions when their immune system mistaken substances in some vegetables and fruits for pollen. This is called cross reaction. It is important to note that allergic reactions may increase if certain allergy causing foods are consumed in their raw state. If they are cooked or canned, their allergy-causing protein is killed and these foods can then be consumed, but it is important to discuss this with your doctor as this may not hold true for all people with allergies. Sometimes peeling the “guilty” fruit or vegetable may also cut down food-pollen allergy reactions. Handpicked fruit and vegetables do lesser harm than foods stored for long periods.
It is important to go easy on milk and milk products such as yogurt, curd and cheese as these have mucus-thickening properties. Clear mucus is essential to get rid of allergens because when it is thick, the allergens stay trapped in the body itself. One may have noticed that often anti-histamines are prescribed to fight an allergy. Therefore, it is but natural that you keep away from histamine foods. Doing away with these foods at least till the allergic symptoms subside is crucial. These foods only add to the amount of histamine already being produced by the body. Therefore their intake should be kept to a strict minimum or stopped completely depending on the severity of the allergic reaction. Apart from tomatoes, avocadoes, celery and eggplant, one must also avoid dried fruits, mushrooms, processed foods, fermented foods. Alcohol beverages such as beer and wine also increase histamine levels.
Food allergies or alimentary allergies are also quite common. In cases where children suffer from food allergies, the allergic reactions usually disappear with time or are cyclic in nature. In adults however, the food allergy is more often than not a permanent problem. The most common alimentary allergies in kids are nut allergies especially peanuts, cow milk allergy, egg allergy, soya allergy and wheat allergy. Adult allergies are nuts, fruits, vegetables, fish, mollusks, crustacean and dairy-product related. Often the allergic reaction as soon as the allergy-causing food is ingested. In the case of food allergy, the answer is simple – Avoid the allergy-causing food itself. However, it is important to diagnose the allergy, determine what food is causing the allergic reaction and come up with a diet plan that excludes that particular food, but replaces it with another food having similar nutritional value. Sometimes, over time individuals develop a certain kind of “tolerance” to these foods, that is, they are less allergic to them or have milder reactions.
As for the foods that actually help keep allergies at bay, they are those that increase the efficiency of the immune system. These foods are rich in Beta-carotene, magnesium, vitamin C and quercetin. Beta-carotene when transformed into Vitamin A is a great antioxidant. It helps in the proper functioning of the respiratory system. Magnesium-rich foods help curbing the effects of histamines and help regulate the respiratory system. Vitamin C lowers histamine levels and therefore prevents allergic reactions. Quercetin also reduces the histamine effect to a large extent. Vitamin C and quercetin also have anti-inflammatory properties.
Allergy Prevention Tips
Air Conditioning and Allergies
To help alleviate problems with pollen, molds and dust mites, air condition your house and car and, if possible, add an air cleaner to your central air conditioner.
Anaphylactic Shock
Anaphylactic shock, the most severe allergic reaction, is most commonly associated with bee or fire ant stings. If welts (hives) erupt following a sting, this is a warning flag to seek prompt medical attention.
Attic Fans
Don't use your attic fan during allergy season. The fan sucks pollen into the house.
Avoid Dyes
Avoid dyes, especially the ones in toilet paper. Use white to wipe.
Bedding and Dust Mites
If dust mites give you trouble, seal your mattress, box springs and pillows in allergy-resistant plastic covers available at most discount stores.
Carpeting Causes Allergy Problems
Allergy experts recommend you dump the carpeting and use throw rugs instead. Since most people enjoy a carpeted home, try the new allergy care carpet treatments now available.
Cheap Fungicide
Clean humid areas, such as the bathroom and basement, with a fungicide (mold-killer). A cheap and effective one is bleach. Use a solution of 3/4 cup bleach to one gallon of water, let stand 5 minutes and rinse.
Choose Antiperspirants Carefully
Aluminum chloride, aluminum sulfate and zirconium chlorohydrate in antiperspirants often cause dermatitis, especially after shaving. Try to choose antiperspirants that contain the anti-irritants allantoinate, zinc oxide, magnesium oxide, aluminum hydroxide, or triethanolamine.
Cold Compresses for Allergy Relief
Are your allergy eyes giving you fit? Try a cold compress for 15-20 minutes. Wet a washcloth with cold water and place over your eyes.
Common Allergens and Allergy Symptoms
A listing of common allergens: pollen, mold spores, dust mites, animal dander, feathers, foods, medications, and insect stings. Common allergy symptoms: watery, itchy eyes, sneezing, and a constant runny nose.
Common Pollens
The most common pollens causing allergies include: tree pollens (April - May), grasses (June - July) and ragweed (August - October).
Dandruff and Shampoo Dyes
Dandruff sufferers may be allergic to the dyes in the shampoo they use. Even dandruff remedy shampoos often contain dyes.
Decongestants and Blood Pressure
If you are hypertensive, over-the-counter decongestants are a big no-no. Decongestants raise blood pressure and can lead to heart attack or stroke.
Dehumidifier and Allergies
Keep the humidity in your home below 45%. To measure the humidity level, buy an inexpensive hygrometer available at many discount stores.
Driving and Antihistamines
Antihistamines often cause drowsiness and should not be taken if driving or operating machinery.
Drug Treatment for Allergies
The over-the-counter antihistamine diphenhydramine (Benadryl) works well for allergy treatment and has few drug interactions. Be sure to read the label for proper dosage, side effects, etc. and check with your doctor if you have any questions.
Face Masks
Wear a face mask when doing chores that are most likely to expose you to allergens like vacuuming and gardening. You can buy face masks at a hardware store.
Fall Allergies
Even though fall temperatures are mild, keep windows closed and use air conditioning to reduce allergy problems. Air conditioning filters out pollen and keeps humidity low, which keeps indoor mold down.
Hay Fever vs. Sinusitis
Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) is caused by allergies and is often characterized by a runny nose, sneezing and congestion, and itchy eyes, nose, throat and inner ears. Non-allergic rhinitis (sinusitis) is characterized by a swollen, inflamed nasal lining and a stuffy nose. It may be triggered by irritants such as smoke, changes in barometric pressure or temperature, or overuse of over-the-counter decongestant nasal sprays.
Hidden Sources of Peanuts
Hidden peanut sources may include:
Artificial nuts can be peanuts that have been deflavored and reflavored with a nut, such as pecan or walnut. Mandelonas are peanuts soaked in almond flavoring.
Arachis oil is peanut oil.
It is advised that peanut-allergic patients avoid chocolate candies unless they are absolutely certain there is no risk of cross-contact during manufacturing procedures.
African, Chinese, Indonesian, Mexican, Thai, and Vietnamese dishes often contain peanuts, or are contaminated with peanuts during preparation of these types of meals. Additionally, foods sold in bakeries and ice cream shops are often in contact with peanuts. It is recommended that peanut-allergic individuals avoid these types of foods and restaurants.
Many brands of sunflower seeds are produced on equipment shared with peanuts.
Laundry Allergies
If you have severe allergies to laundry products, try using baking soda to wash your clothing and linens.
Mites and Mattress Pads
Wash your mattress pads weekly in hot water to kill dust mites.
Nasal Sprays
Don't be tempted to treat an allergy with an over-the-counter decongestant nasal spray for more than three days. After a few days of use you may get a "rebound" effect, and your nose may become even more congested than before. These drugs are more useful for short-term use to relieve nasal congestion associated with a cold.
No Open Windows
If you're an allergy sufferer do not ride in a vehicle with the windows down or vents wide open. It will worsen your allergies 200 percent. The same goes for your home. Invest in an air conditioner.
One Room Sanctuary
If central air conditioning isn't an option for you, make your bedroom your sanctuary. Install a window air conditioner, properly care for your bedding and keep the door closed at all times.
Pets, Bedrooms and Allergies
Pet dander is a common allergen, especially cat dander. To ease the suffering that Fido or Fluffy may cause you, ban them from your bedroom at all times.
Preventing a More Severe Peanut Allergy Reaction
In one of seven studies published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, researchers say liquid charcoal, which is often used when people ingest poison to block absorption, can also absorb peanuts.
"After you've eaten the peanut and you have an allergic reaction, you still have peanut in your stomach," explained Dr. Donald Leung, editor of the journal. "And so rather than allow further peanut to be absorbed and have an even more severe reaction ... drinking the charcoal will prevent the further triggering of increased symptoms."
Leung advised that parents of young children with the allergy keep liquid charcoal -- available in pharmacies -- in the home, in case of accidental ingestion.
Ragweed
Problems with ragweed, the most common weed pollen, usually start in the middle of August and continue until the frost begins. Interestingly, some regions are less affected than others: The West coast does not have any ragweed.
Synthetic Pillows
Dust mites like synthetic pillows as much as down or foam ones, but synthetic pillows have the major advantage of being washable in hot water which kills the mites.
Tree Allergies
Trees that can cause seasonal allergy symptoms include: maple, ash, oak, elm, birch and cedar. When they pollinate depends on the area in which you live.
To help alleviate problems with pollen, molds and dust mites, air condition your house and car and, if possible, add an air cleaner to your central air conditioner.
Anaphylactic Shock
Anaphylactic shock, the most severe allergic reaction, is most commonly associated with bee or fire ant stings. If welts (hives) erupt following a sting, this is a warning flag to seek prompt medical attention.
Attic Fans
Don't use your attic fan during allergy season. The fan sucks pollen into the house.
Avoid Dyes
Avoid dyes, especially the ones in toilet paper. Use white to wipe.
Bedding and Dust Mites
If dust mites give you trouble, seal your mattress, box springs and pillows in allergy-resistant plastic covers available at most discount stores.
Carpeting Causes Allergy Problems
Allergy experts recommend you dump the carpeting and use throw rugs instead. Since most people enjoy a carpeted home, try the new allergy care carpet treatments now available.
Cheap Fungicide
Clean humid areas, such as the bathroom and basement, with a fungicide (mold-killer). A cheap and effective one is bleach. Use a solution of 3/4 cup bleach to one gallon of water, let stand 5 minutes and rinse.
Choose Antiperspirants Carefully
Aluminum chloride, aluminum sulfate and zirconium chlorohydrate in antiperspirants often cause dermatitis, especially after shaving. Try to choose antiperspirants that contain the anti-irritants allantoinate, zinc oxide, magnesium oxide, aluminum hydroxide, or triethanolamine.
Cold Compresses for Allergy Relief
Are your allergy eyes giving you fit? Try a cold compress for 15-20 minutes. Wet a washcloth with cold water and place over your eyes.
Common Allergens and Allergy Symptoms
A listing of common allergens: pollen, mold spores, dust mites, animal dander, feathers, foods, medications, and insect stings. Common allergy symptoms: watery, itchy eyes, sneezing, and a constant runny nose.
Common Pollens
The most common pollens causing allergies include: tree pollens (April - May), grasses (June - July) and ragweed (August - October).
Dandruff and Shampoo Dyes
Dandruff sufferers may be allergic to the dyes in the shampoo they use. Even dandruff remedy shampoos often contain dyes.
Decongestants and Blood Pressure
If you are hypertensive, over-the-counter decongestants are a big no-no. Decongestants raise blood pressure and can lead to heart attack or stroke.
Dehumidifier and Allergies
Keep the humidity in your home below 45%. To measure the humidity level, buy an inexpensive hygrometer available at many discount stores.
Driving and Antihistamines
Antihistamines often cause drowsiness and should not be taken if driving or operating machinery.
Drug Treatment for Allergies
The over-the-counter antihistamine diphenhydramine (Benadryl) works well for allergy treatment and has few drug interactions. Be sure to read the label for proper dosage, side effects, etc. and check with your doctor if you have any questions.
Face Masks
Wear a face mask when doing chores that are most likely to expose you to allergens like vacuuming and gardening. You can buy face masks at a hardware store.
Fall Allergies
Even though fall temperatures are mild, keep windows closed and use air conditioning to reduce allergy problems. Air conditioning filters out pollen and keeps humidity low, which keeps indoor mold down.
Hay Fever vs. Sinusitis
Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) is caused by allergies and is often characterized by a runny nose, sneezing and congestion, and itchy eyes, nose, throat and inner ears. Non-allergic rhinitis (sinusitis) is characterized by a swollen, inflamed nasal lining and a stuffy nose. It may be triggered by irritants such as smoke, changes in barometric pressure or temperature, or overuse of over-the-counter decongestant nasal sprays.
Hidden Sources of Peanuts
Hidden peanut sources may include:
Artificial nuts can be peanuts that have been deflavored and reflavored with a nut, such as pecan or walnut. Mandelonas are peanuts soaked in almond flavoring.
Arachis oil is peanut oil.
It is advised that peanut-allergic patients avoid chocolate candies unless they are absolutely certain there is no risk of cross-contact during manufacturing procedures.
African, Chinese, Indonesian, Mexican, Thai, and Vietnamese dishes often contain peanuts, or are contaminated with peanuts during preparation of these types of meals. Additionally, foods sold in bakeries and ice cream shops are often in contact with peanuts. It is recommended that peanut-allergic individuals avoid these types of foods and restaurants.
Many brands of sunflower seeds are produced on equipment shared with peanuts.
Laundry Allergies
If you have severe allergies to laundry products, try using baking soda to wash your clothing and linens.
Mites and Mattress Pads
Wash your mattress pads weekly in hot water to kill dust mites.
Nasal Sprays
Don't be tempted to treat an allergy with an over-the-counter decongestant nasal spray for more than three days. After a few days of use you may get a "rebound" effect, and your nose may become even more congested than before. These drugs are more useful for short-term use to relieve nasal congestion associated with a cold.
No Open Windows
If you're an allergy sufferer do not ride in a vehicle with the windows down or vents wide open. It will worsen your allergies 200 percent. The same goes for your home. Invest in an air conditioner.
One Room Sanctuary
If central air conditioning isn't an option for you, make your bedroom your sanctuary. Install a window air conditioner, properly care for your bedding and keep the door closed at all times.
Pets, Bedrooms and Allergies
Pet dander is a common allergen, especially cat dander. To ease the suffering that Fido or Fluffy may cause you, ban them from your bedroom at all times.
Preventing a More Severe Peanut Allergy Reaction
In one of seven studies published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, researchers say liquid charcoal, which is often used when people ingest poison to block absorption, can also absorb peanuts.
"After you've eaten the peanut and you have an allergic reaction, you still have peanut in your stomach," explained Dr. Donald Leung, editor of the journal. "And so rather than allow further peanut to be absorbed and have an even more severe reaction ... drinking the charcoal will prevent the further triggering of increased symptoms."
Leung advised that parents of young children with the allergy keep liquid charcoal -- available in pharmacies -- in the home, in case of accidental ingestion.
Ragweed
Problems with ragweed, the most common weed pollen, usually start in the middle of August and continue until the frost begins. Interestingly, some regions are less affected than others: The West coast does not have any ragweed.
Synthetic Pillows
Dust mites like synthetic pillows as much as down or foam ones, but synthetic pillows have the major advantage of being washable in hot water which kills the mites.
Tree Allergies
Trees that can cause seasonal allergy symptoms include: maple, ash, oak, elm, birch and cedar. When they pollinate depends on the area in which you live.
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