5 Things That Make Your Allergies Worse

In a casual survey of the HealthyWomen audience, 67 percent reported taking medication to help control allergy symptoms. While this is a necessary step for many, avoiding the factors that can make allergies worse may help people keep medication intake to a minimum.

Depending on what you're allergic to, you may know how to avoid some of your major triggers, such as: don't let pets in your bedroom; minimize use of carpets, down comforters, pillows, plush upholstery and drapes; stay inside and keep windows closed during peak pollen times, especially at night and early morning hours; run air conditioners in your house and car; use air filtering devices and HEPA vacuum filters; and stay out of damp, moldy areas.

But, here are five lifestyle factors that you may not be aware of that can exacerbate symptoms like sniffling, sneezing and watery eyes.

1. Bringing fruits, vegetables and household plants home
We tend to think of fruits and veggies as being "good for you," but considering that pollen and other plant-derived allergens are what cause seasonal allergies, it makes sense that bringing plants, ferns and flowers into your house could aggravate your sinuses. In fact, scientists from the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology have reported that people with certain allergies tend to be sensitive to particular types of produce. For example, individuals who are allergic to grass may find that tomatoes, peaches or potatoes make their symptoms worse, while people with birch or alder tree allergies may be bothered by cherries, celery or apples. When it comes to household plants, ficus, yucca, ivy, palm, orchids and ferns are the most common causes of flare-ups.

2. Not following doctor's orders
If you've been prescribed a medication for severe allergies, it's best to take it exactly as your physician directs. Putting off starting your medication until late in the season when symptoms are in full swing or switching drugs or doses on your own may not produce the results you need, not to mention inadvertently putting more chemicals in your system than necessary. If you feel like your current prescribed regimen needs some tweaking, be sure to make an appointment with your health care professional to discuss your options.