Medical task force offers guidelines for allergy sufferers - February 10, 1999

February 14, 1999

Medical task force offers guidelines for allergy sufferers

February 10, 1999

Web posted at: 1:34 p.m. EST (1034 GMT)

WASHINGTON (CNN) -- A task force of major medical organizations announced

broad-scale treatment guidelines on Wednesday for allergies that afflict

nearly 50 million Americans.

According to task force co-chairman, Dr. S. efsky, there has been

no standardized set of recommendations for treating the one-in-five

Americans who suffer from allergies.

" This is the first time that a task force, members of organizations who

represent the wider spectrum of medical professionals, has worked together

to develop standardized treatment recommendations for some of our most

prevalent, chronic disorders, " he said.

The report contains information on diagnosing and treating allergies in

adults and children.

efsky said the recommendations ensure that all health providers have

access to the most advanced medical approaches to diagnosis and treatment.

Task force recommendations

Use medicine to treat allergies because they can progress to asthma if

untreated.

When taking medicine, be aware of side effects. For example, many

over-the-counter treatments cause drowsiness, while prescription medicines

often do not.

Allergy sufferers should tailor their activities to avoid triggering their

allergies. For example, exercise frequently, but not near a field of weeds.

After gardening, shower well and rinse nostrils with saltwater rinse.

Avoid fumes from cigarette and cigar smoke.

If you're allergic to animal dander, don't own cats and dogs; dander can

last long after the pet is gone.

Clean your home frequently, especially bedding; wash the sheets in hot water

to control dust mites.

Avoid household cleaning products that may trigger allergies.

Keep your indoor humidity at less than 50 percent to discourage the growth

of mold.

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