Allergies are more common than one might think. In the U.S., allergies rank as the 6th leading cause of chronic illness. In children, allergic reactions are the usual reasons for their trips to the E.R. The annual cost for treating allergies is more than$18 billion.
Since so many people suffer from different types of allergies, it helps that we learn more about allergies. This is especially true since allergies can develop later in life. This means even seniors can develop certain allergies during their old age.
We know that some common types of allergies include food allergies, seasonal allergies, and pet allergies. It is not enough that we know there are professionals we can turn to if one of our loved ones or we unexpectedly develop an allergy. Knowing available allergy treatment options for adults and kids alike will make it easier to manage allergies.
Aside from the usual allergy information readily available to the public, here are five interesting allergy facts everyone should know about.
Some People Have Very Rare Allergies
Many people share the same allergies. Many people in the U.S. are allergic to pet dander, peanut, and pollen. But did you know that there are people who experience severe forms of allergies towards unlikely allergens?
1. Water
Water is a normal liquid everyone utilizes each day. But for some people, they become extremely allergic to water that even bathing and washing their face feels like a daily nightmare. They get hives after a few minutes of contact with water, making bathing and swimming for long periods of time completely unbearable.
2. Semen
Semen allergy is an extremely rare type of allergy in some women. After intercourse, women allergic to semen can suffer from pain, swelling, and hives in their intimate areas and anywhere their allergen has come in contact with. In severe cases, symptoms can appear all over the body, lasting up to several days.
3. Human Touch
Another life-long condition is dermographism. People who suffer from this condition can turn human touch into writings in their bodies. These are the types of people that have exaggerated flare and weal responses on their skin after being scratched.
Simple Ways to Prevent Allergies
Parents always fear their kids developing an allergy or two. The good news is, there are a few simple ways on can prevent allergies from developing. Here are some tips to avoid allergies in children.
Exclusively Breastfeed During the First Six Months
According to a study, exclusive breastfeeding is shown to reduce the risk of developing asthma in babies. Babies fed with breast milk are less likely to develop symptoms like wheezing, persistent phlegm, and shortness of breath. So, as much as possible, choose the natural way of feeding your baby and avoid formula milk during their first six months.
Be Aware of Your Family History
Genetics is known to be a strong indicator of whether your child has a greater chance of developing allergies. If you or any of your family members have allergies, be sure to discuss this with an allergy specialist. They can help you create a personalized strategy to prevent allergies from ruining their life.
Expose Your Kids to Regular Allergens
Exposing kids early to common allergens can help boost their immune systems early in life. Experts say that early introduction to pets, dirt, and allergen foods makes it easier to keep kids from developing allergies. Use common sense during this time as you don’t want to overwhelm your kids with many allergens at a time.
Worse Allergy Management Mistakes
Even if people have been living with allergies all their lives, some still make mistakes in managing their allergies. For one, they try to do things to reduce their likelihood of triggering their allergies, only to fall short. Here’s why:
- Letting doors and windows open when using air purifiers
- Not knowing how to use EpiPens the right way
- Using your EpiPen beyond its use-by date
- Failure to let their loved ones know what their allergy triggers are
- Exercising outdoors early in the morning
- Hoarding stuffed animals, carpets, and other allergen magnets
- Letting your pet sleep in your own bed
- Not keeping track of pollen counts
- Not self-medicating
- Not seeing an allergy specialist
- Engaging in yard work
- Not washing your hands often
- Indulging in alcohol during allergy season
- Ignoring your symptoms
- Taking allergens inside the house
Living with allergies is nowhere easy. But there are ways to effectively manage your allergies and reduce your chances of nursing another allergic reaction. Understanding all there is to know about allergies will make it easier for you to avoid your triggers and protect your kids from developing allergies early on.