The heat and humidity are taking a toll on just about anybody in the country but those with asthma and allergy suffer the most. We asked experts to come up with tips to help you manage. What are seasonal allergies?If you are sneezing, wheezing and coughing without end, you might be affected by “ seasonal allergies”. The culprits are substances or allergens that surround you every day. When your body comes in contact with them, your immune system overreacts and triggers a reaction. The symptoms can be sparked off by exposure to fungal spores, dust mites, molds, cockroaches and pets. “There are no generalized allergens. One person may be allergic to one thing and another to something else,” said Dr Arup Kumar Basu, senior consultant, department of chest medicines atSir Ganga Ram hospital, Delhi.What are the possible symptoms?Severe cold, sneezing fits, itchy and watery eyes, itchy palate and ears, a runny nose or a blocked stuffy nose, headaches, constant sore throats and dry cough,disturbed sleep, loss of taste and smell and poor concentration are the warning signs. “Sometimes asthmatic patients get such severe attacks that they need hospitalisation,” said Dr Basu. For a sneeze and wheeze-free summerAvoid these triggers: Pollens: Plants and trees pollinate at a particular time of the year. So, use the airconditioner in your car and home and keep your windows closed to keep the pollen out. Avoid windy weather. It can aggravate allergies. Wear glasses or sunglasses when outdoors to keep the pollen from irritating the eyes. Wash hands often and rinse eyes with cool water after coming indoors to remove clinging pollen. Wash hair at night to prevent pollen from getting into the bed. Dust mites: These microscopic creatures live in bedding, mattresses, upholstered furniture and carpets. Cover mattresses with allergen-impermeable plastic casings that can be removed and cleaned frequently. Limit the number of stuffed animals kept in bedrooms. Remove carpet from the bedroom, if possible; if not, vacuum once or twice a week. Use air-conditioning to keep humidity low to slow down dust mite growth in warm weather. Clean or change air-conditioner and furnace filters often. Keep desert coolers clean.Molds: Molds thrive in damp basements and closets, bathrooms (especially shower stalls), places where fresh food is stored, refrigerator trays, house plants, air conditioners, humidifiers, garbage pails, mattresses, upholstered furniture and old foam rubber pillows.Clean bathrooms, kitchens and basements regularly and keep them well-aired. Use dehumidifiers in damp areas. Set the humidity level less than 50 per cent but above 25 percent. Clean visible molds on walls, floors and ceilings. Limit the number of indoor plants which may harbour molds in the potting soil. Also avoid dried flowers which may contain molds.Cockroaches: Keep kitchen clean and wash dishes promptly. Make sure all food is stored in sealed containers. Empty garbage and recycle bins frequently. Avoid leaving food out. Set cockroach traps. Seal cracks in your home to prevent infestation.Pets: Keep your pet outdoors or limit its movement a few rooms. At the very least, they should be kept out of the bedroom. Bathe them once a week. Use air cleaners to remove pet allergens in the home.
