Patient Education from University of Colorado Hospital

Living with Allergies

Allergies can't be prevented, but they can usually be treated and controlled. Minor lifestyle adjustments can help lessen the effects of allergies. Talk to your doctor about allergy medicines that might improve your allergy symptoms. Discuss any side effects that may result from taking allergy medication.

Limiting the number of allergens you are around may help reduce your symptoms. For example, if you are allergic to pet dander, you may want to avoid having animals in your home that cause allergic symptoms.

If you are allergic to certain types of food, reading food labels and avoiding foods that cause reactions is recommended.

If you're allergic to pollen, avoid keeping windows open when pollen counts are high usually in the spring.

Getting a Second Opinion about Allergies

People who suffer from severe allergies may want to seek additional medical advice from an allergist or ear, nose and throat specialist. The specialists at University of Colorado Hospital are happy to provide you with a second opinion.

Allergy Support Groups

Allergy and Asthma Mothers of Asthmatics

Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America

Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network

Additional Allergy Resources

American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology

American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology

National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease