Sometimes, it can be difficult to tell whether or not allergic symptoms are due to the common cold or allergy triggers like pet dander and pollen. The first step to finding out if you have any allergies is getting an allergy test. Find out more about dealing with allergies with these tips.

If you suffer from allergies, you need to carefully choose which laundry detergents you use. Certain brands of detergents can trigger allergy symptoms. If you find that all detergents bother your allergies, you could always wash your clothing, and your linens with baking soda. Also, allow your clothing to air dry rather than using a dryer.

People who have severe allergic reactions need to call 911 when they feel the symptoms coming on. This is the best and quickest way to get help and ensure that you do not end up in a more critical condition. Allergic reactions can come on fast, and some can even lead to death, so take the proper measures to get help quickly.

It’s very common for people to recommend humidifiers to allergy sufferers, as it can help moisten airways as people sleep. This can actually be harmful, as humidifier mist will settle on carpeting and encourage mold growth. One alternative to a humidifier is a saline spray. These sprays help moisten the nasal passages.

Your doctor may hold the key to helping you treat your allergy symptoms. Some over-the-counter medications and nasal sprays may not be strong enough to actually help your symptoms. Your doctor may feel that it is best that he or she write you a stronger prescription. Just make sure you tell your doctor about any health conditions you have.

If you are planning a trip, and someone in your party has a severe food allergy. Visit a doctor before departing. Request a prescription for an extra epinephrine pen to keep with you at all times. To avoid mix-ups, or delays at airport security checkpoints. Keep a copy of the prescription, and directions with the package.

If your allergy symptoms flare up frequently, you may want to think about getting allergy shots. These work by a physician injecting a small amount of allergen into your system over time. Eventually, your immune system will be able to fight off allergy attacks. These are usually given for 3 to 5 years.

If you find yourself having an allergic reaction to something new, it can be very difficult to discover exactly what it is. This is especially true of skin allergies, although it can be any kind. Talk to a medical professional to run a battery of tests, and discover exactly what is causing your reaction.

For allergy sufferers who are especially sensitive to common allergens, it is important to reduce or entirely avoid using the hands to touch their faces. Surface allergens are easily transferred from the fingers to delicate areas like the mouth, eyes and nasal area. Touching the face with dirty hands may also lead to acne.

As said in the beginning of the article, it’s easier to deal with your allergic symptoms if you know what causes them. Avoiding your triggers as much as possible can reduce the itchy throat and runny nose that commonly come from these triggers. Remember the tips in this article to deal with allergies effectively.