Allergy season is an uncomfortable time of year for many people. It can trigger a number of symptoms that feel impossible to control, such as sneezing, stuffy nose, watery and itchy eyes, and headaches caused by congestion. All of these can affect your day-to-day life. More than that, allergy season can mean more frequent asthma attacks, which could become genuine threats to one’s life.
If one or more of your family members suffer from seasonal allergies or asthma, then your household needs to be prepared for the coming months. Understanding how you can help your family members manage their symptoms will enable you to alleviate their discomfort and prevent reactions from worsening. Here are a few tips to help your family breathe easier during allergy season.
1. Keep a Nebulizer with You at All Times
A nebulizer is a machine that is used to administer medicine directly to the lungs. It uses a compressor to turn liquid medication into a mist that a person can inhale through a connected mouthpiece or facemask. This process delivers the medication directly to the lungs.
Compressor nebulizers are widely available for home use, and while they are primarily intended to help those with asthma, they’re also very useful during allergy season. These devices can be used to administer medications that ease coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. It can be a practical option to have two nebulizers during allergy season: a regular one to be kept at home and a portable mesh nebulizer that you can take anywhere.
2. Make Sure Your Nebulizer is Well-Maintained
Keeping your nebulizer in good condition will make it last longer and ensure that it can effectively deliver medication. After every use, rinse and air dry the device to remove any leftover medicine and prevent bacteria growth. Disassemble the nebulizer and wash the medicine cup and mouthpiece or mask with a mild detergent. Do this at least once a week. Check your nebulizer’s manual for any specific cleaning instructions as well.
Time and repeated use will also cause wear and tear on your nebulizer, so keep an eye out for any parts that need replacing. As a rule of thumb, you’ll need to replace the tubing and filters every three to six months and the medication cup every six months. OMRON sells not only efficient and easy-to-use nebulizers but high-quality nebulizer accessories as well. This makes it easy for you to find parts and replacements that will keep your devices in top condition.
3. Identify and Avoid Everyone’s Allergy Triggers
To avoid your family members’ allergy triggers, you need to be aware of them first. If someone starts having an allergic reaction, take note of where they are and what circumstances they're currently in. For example, an allergic reaction outside could point to a pollen allergy. If this happens indoors, the possible triggers include mold or dust. Smoke is also a common cause of allergies, so be wary of packed streets with tons of smoke coming from the exhaust pipes.
4. Stock Up on Other Allergy Treatments
Besides compressor nebulizers, it’s also good to have other allergy treatments on hand to easily and conveniently soothe allergy symptoms. Antihistamines, for example, are over-the-counter medications that can ease itching, sneezing, and watery eyes. Nasal sprays can provide quick and easy relief. These can be especially useful for milder reactions. Finally, nasal irrigation is a method of rinsing your nasal passages with a saline solution. This helps remove any allergens and irritants in your nasal passages and clears any congestion. If your family prefers nasal irrigation to soothe allergy symptoms, for example, make sure to have a nasal irrigation kit in the house at all times.
If anyone in your family is allergic to dust or mold, then keeping the house completely clean should be a top priority for everyone. Sweep the floors and dust other surfaces daily to prevent dust build-up and discourage dust mites from multiplying in your home. Vacuum rugs and carpets regularly to prevent mold growth, too. Plus, make sure to change and wash beddings every two weeks. Doing so will allow you to keep allergens in the bedroom to a minimum. An air purifier can also make sure that your home’s air is completely safe for family members with allergies.
Allergy season doesn’t have to take over your household. Being ready is your best defense. With nebulizers from OMRON and a little extra preparation, you can create a safer and more comfortable environment for your family. Being proactive in this manner enables you to reduce flare-ups and address symptoms of allergic reactions before they worsen. This, in turn, will allow everyone in your home to enjoy peace of mind, even during allergy season.