Warding off allergies

Allergies are a quiet thief.

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They steal comfort, interrupt sleep, disrupt days.

For many, the rush of pollen, the hush of mould, or the hidden dust mites in bedding can trigger sneezes, rashes, watery eyes, wheezing. The good news is there are practical steps anyone can take to keep those unwelcome symptoms at bay, to reclaim control over one's environment and well-being.

First it helps to know exactly what one is allergic to. Without identifying triggers, prevention is guessing. Visiting a healthcare provider for allergy testing through skin prick tests or blood tests can point out specific culprits. Keeping a diary of when symptoms appear, what one has eaten or done, what the weather is like, which places one has visited can help to spot patterns. Once triggers are identified, avoidance becomes possible and effective.