Allergy Prevention 101 for Invisible Illness Warriors
Key Takeaways:
Allergies are chronic conditions that can cause flares.
Allergic reactions can arise from foods, pollen, pets, mold, drugs, and insects.
Many people can have allergies alongside another chronic condition, which may heighten the chance of flares.
Preventive measures like identifying triggers and keeping your home clean can limit flares.
Do certain foods, plants, or pollen cause you to have an allergic reaction? Allergies affect millions of people across the globe, and symptoms can range from mild to life-threatening. Allergies require lifestyle adjustments to prevent or manage allergic reactions.
It’s not uncommon for people living with chronic conditions to have allergies. But, given how triggers sunlight and spicy foods can cause flares, can allergies also worsen chronic illness symptoms?
Continue reading to discover the connection between allergies and chronic illnesses and prevention methods for limiting allergic reactions.
In case you didn't know, allergies are chronic or long-lasting conditions. The American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology states that allergies are the sixth leading cause of chronic illness.
Some examples of common allergy diseases are:
Anaphylaxis
Sinusitis
Rhinitis
Asthma
Drug allergy
You can have allergic reactions to certain foods, drugs, insects, mold, pets, and pollen.
Chronic conditions can weaken immune systems, so there’s a higher chance of allergic reactions. For example, 10% of people with lupus can experience hives or urticaria from allergic reactions lasting 24 hours or more.
Also, a 2019 study found that people with allergies are more likely to experience the long-term risks of autoimmune disorders.
Many people with chronic illness experience flares, which are when the symptoms of their condition worsen. Flares can cause mild to moderate pain or discomfort.
If you have coexisting chronic conditions, with one being an allergy disease, you might have more triggers that can cause flares.
How to prevent allergic reactions
With this in mind, here are some tips for allergy prevention with a chronic illness:
Know your allergens
Do you know what triggers your allergies? To keep track of your allergy flares, have a journal or take notes on your phone when your symptoms flare up. Then, find out what you were exposed to before the flare-up.
Chronius offers a free symptom tracker you can use to keep track of your chronic illness flares. You can print or complete the spreadsheet on your phone, tablet, or computer.
Keep a clean environment
Allergens can grow and spread within your home, so keeping your environment clean is essential. Vacuum often, preferably with a HEPA filter to trap allergens. In addition, use hypoallergenic bedding and wash your bedding in hot water to kill dust mites.
If you have pets, keep them groomed and limit their access to certain areas of your home, such as the bedroom.
Manage your indoor air quality
Indoor air quality can impact your allergies and worsen your chronic illness flares. So, use an air purifier with a HEPA filter to trap allergens. Also, keep the humidity level in your home between 30% and 40% to prevent the growth of mold and dust mites. Finally, avoid mold by using a dehumidifier in damp areas such as basements or bathrooms.
Be cautious with food
Food allergies can be particularly dangerous for those with chronic illnesses. Watch what you eat by reading nutrition labels. When eating out, always inform the staff of your allergies and ask about ingredients within the meals. Also, please remember that some medications, such as antibiotics, can cause allergic reactions. Always inform your healthcare providers of any medication allergies.
Avoid exposure to outdoor allergens
Outdoor allergens such as pollen, mold, and dust can trigger allergy symptoms. Check pollen counts and avoid going outside during high pollen days. You can also use a face mask when doing yard work to limit how much allergens you inhale. Once you enter your home, immediately shower to remove allergens from your skin and hair.
Speak with your healthcare provider
Collaborate with your healthcare provider to develop an allergy management plan. They can prescribe medications or recommend allergy shots to manage your symptoms. Keep your healthcare provider informed of any new allergies or changes in your symptoms.
Allergy prevention is crucial for those with chronic illnesses. Identifying allergens can minimize exposure to allergens and reduce your risk of triggering symptoms. Be sure to take proactive steps to prevent and manage allergic reactions.
How Chronius Can Help
If living with chronic illness feels like a full time job, you aren’t alone.
That’s why at Chronius, we make it easy to navigate the healthcare system as a patient. Our online care management platform brings together all of your health records and offers a 1-click appointment prep tool that easily synthesizes your health story for your care team. You also can track all of your symptoms, identify trends, learn from vetted medical information, and follow a custom patient journey map. Plus, if you needs hands on support, our Care Advocates are available to help you with any issues you may hit up against. Personalized support as you navigate your care journey is what we are all about.
Interested in learning more and signing up for our waitlist? Claim your spot today.
