Each time of the year brings a new string of allergies. While these allergens differ depending on location and individual sensitivities, allergy season can be a 12-month hassle.
Seasonal and chronic conditions, while inconvenient to everyone, affect seniors a little differently than most of the population. Medical professionals have to consider age and mental and physical conditions when diagnosing and treating these patients, as the regular course of care may not be the best plan of action. Certain antihistamines that would normally be prescribed can have adverse reactions on seniors with cardiovascular disease and interact negatively with other medications, according to a study published in the Archives of Family Medicine.
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The loved ones of seniors battling these issues can take these four steps to ensure the effects allergies have are minimal:
1. Strive for Clean Air
While having the windows open during the warmer months provides a relaxing, gentle breeze, it can wreak havoc on seniors’ allergies. According to Bay Alarm Medical, loved ones should turn on their air conditioner during this time instead and invest in a dehumidifier that captures pesky particles from circulating. Family members can keep allergens from impacting those they love by providing clean air where seniors live.
“An allergy test can help seniors discern what is most bothersome.”
2. Ask for an Allergy Test
It’s not uncommon for people to know the source of their allergies, whether it’s the dogwood trees blooming outside or pet dander inside the house. An allergy test will likely be helpful for loved ones who can’t quite figure out what’s causing the problem.
There are two types of assessments healthcare providers may use: a prick or scratch test or an intradermal test. The latter involves more of the allergen being injected under the skin instead of the allergen being pricked or scratched into the skin. Before the procedure, allergists may ask patients to keep track of their symptoms for a period of time – monitoring where they were when they felt most affected, the duration of the sensitivity, and the medicines used to control them, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology.
With this information, medical professionals can understand whether the issue is seasonal or a more chronic condition like rhinitis, which causes irritation and inflammation in the mucous membrane within the nose.
3. Maintain Good Hygiene
Everyone likes to be outside, especially on nice days. Exposing seniors to the elements, especially on particularly windy mornings, can cause troublesome allergy problems. Loved ones should be sure their family members are bathing frequently and cleansing themselves after spending time outdoors. According to Our Parents, this removes pollen that may get caught on clothing, skin, and hair, which can reduce the effect allergens have on seniors.
Clothes should then be washed and dried inside instead of on a clothing line, which can cause more wind-borne allergens to become trapped. If bathing isn’t an option immediately after spending time outside, changing into a fresh outfit can be a quick fix.
4. Eat the Right Foods
As a senior, it’s important to maintain a healthy diet. Did you know that eating certain foods can decrease some allergy symptoms? According to Medical Alert Advice, apples, leafy greens, walnuts, and items high in Vitamin C can reduce inflammation. Incorporating these foods into your diet can minimize some of the effects of allergens, especially if paired with the aforementioned steps.
