cathyvv

I need to avoid smokers and people who wear lots of cologne. According to my allergist, It's not allergy, though. It is a chemical sensitivity. Feels exactly the same to me.

Notwendy

I am a big fan of Zyrtek (generic otc available). My major allergies are to dust mites & mold - as someone above posted, try getting away from those any time of year. That & the occasional seasonal use of previously prescription nasal sprays (Flonase, astelin, synocort, etc) gets me through. So far I haven't needed an actual inhaler.

Zyrtek seems to mitigate the severity the best of all the prescription meds I tried (most of which are over the counter now).

That said, when things get out of control, only Benadryl helps me. I hate taking it because it turns me into a zombie. Grant you, a clear breathing zombie, but a zombie nonetheless.

We are both mildly allergic to cats but have 4. We will take daily meds to enjoy their company. : )

cashs_mom

I had the same experience about my allergies being bad and when I strengthened my immune system, my allergies were much less. I've noticed they are getting bad again and also that I've been sick a couple times so I'm going to talk to my nutritionist about working on my immune system. Oh, I also have dental problems but just had laser surgery to correct a few problem areas and I'm good again on that front.

bearisgray

I've noticed with cats - there are some I am very allergic to - others just mildly so -

Seems to depend on the cat. Length of hair did seem to be a factor, nor where they were living.

My Mom had several inside cats - I could pet Babe for hours - he was a long hair sweetheart - with minimal reaction - she had a short-hair black one - two strokes on him (when he got close enough!) and I was miserable for hours later.

Onebyone

I agree dental health is one important factor in immune strength. Do not overlook any dental problems. When symptoms appear, don't dismiss them. Bleeding, soreness, or sensitivity. Don't ever think oh it's just my teeth, I can live with it. Dental infections, even the non painful kind, will knock you down fast by lowering your immune system and then whamo you feel bad all the time. It takes a long time for your body to fight off anything if your immune system is weak.

madamekelly

I was told by a holistic Doctor that if I bought local honey, and used it a few times a week, it would help with my allergies. She was right. It has made them much better. I quit using antihistamines after about two weeks. I am allergic to mold, mildew, and about half the flowers that grow in Oregon, in addition to grass. Local honey is my new medicine forever.

Notwendy

I haven't tried local honey - it is certainly worth a try.

As to cats, it takes us a few weeks/months to get used to a new cat but our allergies eventually return to a baseline.

Our cats seem to have seasonal allergies ad well. We give them daily lysine but I've started giving them Zyrtec too. It seems to help.