Emergency Room for Allergic Reactions

For those experiencing allergic reactions, many find relief through over-the-counter antihistamines. However, if these medications aren’t effective or your allergies significantly impact your daily life, especially if you lack an epi-pen and your breathing is impacted, it’s crucial to take immediate action. In such cases, calling 911 or heading to the nearest emergency room is essential for prompt and effective treatment. Visit a Surepoint ER near you if you experience any of these allergic reaction symptoms:

• Apparent rash
• Itchy or swollen skin
• Red splotches on the skin
• Irritation in the eyes, throat, nose, or ears
• Shortness of breath or tight chest
• Nasal congestion or sinus troubles
• Increased heart rate
• Sudden drop in blood pressure
• Feeling lightheaded or dizzy

If you think you’re having an allergic reaction, act quickly for your safety. If you notice any related symptoms, treat it as a warning sign, and don’t wait. Get help right away by going to a Surepoint emergency room near you or calling 911 immediately.

To prevent allergies, the key is being allergy-aware. While avoiding triggers is the best strategy, it’s not always easy. Consult your doctor or allergist for a diagnosis using exams and health history discussions. They may conduct tests like Allergy Skin Testing, Allergy Elimination (or Challenge) Testing, or Allergy Blood Tests to identify specific allergens affecting you. For allergy sufferers, here are some tips to limit exposure and prevent allergic reactions:

• Food Allergies:
  – Read ingredient labels and packaging carefully to ensure your allergen is not present.
  – Inform restaurant staff about your allergies when dining out to prevent accidental exposure.
  – Plan before traveling and consider packing your food to ensure a safe and allergy-friendly option.
  – Exercise caution with foods processed in facilities that handle your allergens to minimize the risk of cross-contamination.
• Cat, Dog, and Pet Allergies:
  – Create a pet-free zone in your bedroom, especially during sleep, as we spend a significant portion of our time in bed.
  – Designate a specific area for pets in the house, preferably one with easy-to-clean surfaces like hard flooring instead of carpets and furniture.
  – Discourage pets from lounging on sofas, chairs, or other upholstered surfaces to minimize dander accumulation.
  – Maintain cleanliness by regularly washing bedding and blankets in hot water, and use a hot dryer to help prevent nighttime allergy symptoms.
• Pollen, Ragweed, & Seasonal Allergies:
  – Close windows and doors on days with high pollen counts to minimize exposure.
  – Regularly wash bedding in hot water to eliminate pollen brought in from outside.
  – Reduce outdoor time during high pollen seasons to minimize exposure.
  – Cover your hair and eyes when outdoors to prevent pollen from sticking.
  – Opt to dry clothes in your dryer rather than hanging them outside to avoid collecting pollen.
• Dust Allergies:
  – Regularly wipe surfaces with a damp cloth to clean away dust, preventing it from circulating in the air.
  – Wash sheets, bedding, and stuffed toys weekly in hot water and use a hot dryer to eliminate dust mites.
  – Safeguard pillows and mattresses with dust mite-proof covers to prevent their entry.
  – Opt for roller blinds instead of curtains to reduce surfaces where dust can settle.
  – Choose furniture made of leather, vinyl, or plastic over upholstered furniture to minimize dust retention.
  – Maintain humidity below 50% by using a dehumidifier to create an environment less favorable for dust mites.