Managing allergies while on oxygen therapy can be difficult. Allergy seasons can aggravate symptoms such as nasal congestion. Using a nasal cannula with this symptom can be uncomfortable and may discourage you from continuing oxygen therapy. Here are some ways to take care of your allergies and still get the oxygen therapy you need for your respiratory illness.
What Causes an Allergy?
Allergies are a reaction to airborne particles that causes sneezing, congestion, itchy nose and sore throat. When you breathe in allergens through your nose or mouth, your body reacts by releasing a natural chemical called histamine.
Airborne particles such as pollen, pet dander, mold and insects can trigger allergic symptoms. Most severe during allergy seasons, allergies can leave most people feeling awful. Some people find relief with lifestyle changes, allergy medications and immunotherapy (allergy shots).
How Do Allergies Affect Oxygen Therapy?
One of the most common symptoms of allergies is nasal congestion and other symptoms that feel like the common cold. Trying to use your oxygen concentrator, especially your nasal cannula with congested nasal passages can be uncomfortable. Oxygen therapy may feel more difficult as your breathing will be strained because of congestion. Other allergy symptoms such as headaches or sinus pain may also be aggravated as breathing is made more difficult.
What are Seasonal Allergies and What is Their Relation to Oxygen Therapy?
Seasonal allergies occur twice a year: once in the spring and once in the fall. During the spring, flowers begin to release their pollen into the air. Pollen count can change from day to day. These airborne particles trigger allergic reactions. In the fall, decaying plant matter, such as autumn leaves release mold spores into the air, causing allergies symptoms. Anyone managing oxygen therapy during allergy seasons should be prepared to reduce the discomfort of allergic reactions.
How To Deal with The Allergies While You Are on Oxygen Therapy
If you have allergies and are using oxygen therapy, you can prepare for possible symptoms with either prescription or over the-counter allergy medications. Also, saline solutions can be helpful for reducing the discomfort from nasal congestion.
During allergy seasons, it’s best to avoid the outdoors to prevent contact with airborne particles. Stay indoors and be careful when you do go out to not bring pollen particles back in the house on shoes and clothes.
How to Understand Which Allergy May Be Affecting Your Oxygen Therapy
Understanding your allergies can help you better manage them during oxygen therapy. If your allergies are seasonal, you can take precautions during the spring and fall to minimize symptoms. But not all allergies are subject to the time of year. Some allergies, such as allergies to pet dander, dust or mold can occur all year long and may require lifestyle and household changes to reduce symptoms while on oxygen therapy.
To Improve Your Oxygen Therapy Results - Treat Your Allergies
If you suffer from severe allergies and have oxygen therapy, you can take steps to properly treat your allergies. Visit a allergist to better understand your allergies. Once your specific allergy is pinpointed, an allergist can prescribe medications that can reduce the impact of symptoms, so oxygen therapy is more comfortable.
For more moderate allergies, you may be able to reduce symptoms using medicines available over=the-counter. Medications help alleviate reduce the chemical histamine from causing the inflammation that causes discomfort.
Tips To Reduce Your Allergies
Along with taking proper medications you can also try these tips to reduce allergy symptoms:
- Minimize contact with pets if you are allergic to pet dander
- Do a deep cleaning of your home to reduce dust and mold that may be aggravating symptoms
- Reduce outdoor time during allergy season
- Keep windows closed to reduce outdoor allergens from getting in your home
- Use an air purifier to reduce airborne particles in your home
Where Can I Buy Oxygen Concentrators and Equipment?
Most medical supply stores offer oxygen concentrators for your oxygen therapy. You can also search online for a new unit from the comfort of your own home. You can find oxygen concentrators at The Oxygen Concentrator Supplies Shop. Our knowledgeable staff is ready to answer any questions and help you make the best choice.
