Perennial Allergy

Understanding Perennial Allergy

Perennial allergies (aka year-round allergies) are caused by allergens that are present throughout the year. They are often caused by things such as dust mites, mold, and pet dander. Unlike seasonal allergies, which typically occur in a certain period of the year and are caused by pollen, perennial allergies typically don’t wax and wane. This means that they can affect you all year round.

As with any allergy, the best way to combat perennial allergies is through prevention. Below are some tips to help keep your allergies at bay:

• Vacuum and dust regularly. Regularly cleaning surfaces can help reduce the amount of allergens in your home.
• Keep humidity levels low. High levels of humidity can cause dust mites and mold to proliferate. You can invest in a dehumidifier to help keep levels low.
• Change your HVAC filter regularly. This will keep dust and other allergens from circulating in the air.
• Wash your hands regularly. This will help prevent allergens from entering your body.
• Encase your mattress and pillows with allergy-proof covers. This will help reduce your exposure to dust mites.
• Wash your clothes, bedding, and curtains regularly. This will help reduce allergen levels in your home.
• Avoid certain foods. Allergens from foods such as peanuts, shellfish, and eggs can often trigger allergic reactions. If you have allergies, it’s best to avoid these foods.
• Consider an allergy test. If you suspect you have allergies, you should consider undergoing an allergy test to confirm the cause and which treatments might be best.

If you do have perennial allergies, and your prevention strategies aren’t enough, you may need to seek out medical advice. Work with your healthcare provider to develop a proper treatment plan. Your healthcare provider may suggest over-the-counter or prescription medications to help you manage your allergies. They may also recommend lifestyle changes to help you better manage your allergies and reduce your symptoms.