Allergic Reaction

You can use home treatment to relieve symptoms of:

• Reference Itching or hives. Avoid more contact with whatever you think is causing the hives.
• Reference A sore throat caused by postnasal drip. Gargle with warm salt water to help ease throat soreness.
• Reference Hay fever symptoms. Take an Reference antihistamine to reduce symptoms of itchy, watery eyes; sneezing; or a runny, itchy nose. Be sure to read and follow any warnings on the label. Don't give antihistamines to your child unless you've checked with the doctor first.
• Reference Allergies that are worse in damp weather. Mold may be the cause of allergies that get worse in damp weather. Mold produces spores that move, like pollen, in outdoor air during warmer months. During winter months, indoor molds can also be a problem.
• Reference Indoor allergies. Newer, energy-saving homes that are built with double- or triple-paned windows and more insulation keep heat as well as allergens indoors.
• Reference Allergies to a pet or other animal. When allergies are worse around pets, symptoms may be caused by your pet's dead skin (dander), urine, dried saliva, or hair.
• Reference Seasonal allergies. These are often caused by exposure to pollen.

For tips on how to treat dry and irritated skin, see the topic Reference Dry Skin and Itching.

For information on how to treat an insect bite or sting, see the topic Reference Insect Bites and Stings and Spider Bites.

Symptoms to watch for during home treatment

Reference Call your doctor if any of the following occur during home treatment:

• Trouble breathing, wheezing, or tightness in the chest develops.
• Swelling of the throat, tongue, lips, or face develops.
• Reference Hives Opens New Window develop or get worse.
• Swelling gets worse.
• A Reference skin infection Opens New Window develops.
• Symptoms have not improved after 2 weeks of home treatment.
• Symptoms become more severe or more frequent.

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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.