Quite a few people suffer from allergies. Dust, mold, cats, and pollen are some of the most common airborne allergies, and peanuts and soy are two of the most common food allergies. Do you have an allergy? You probably have at least one, maybe more. More than 50 million Americans suffer from allergies, and life with an allergy can be a challenge. Whether you start sneezing just as the buds start blooming, have to avoid peanut butter religiously, or can’t wear costume jewelry, an allergy always makes life more complicated. Without further ado, here are some common allergies, and some tricks for doing what you love in spite of them.
Gluten
More and more people are trying the “gluten free” phase. While it’s a good experiment, and many people report feeling better after quitting gluten, the “fad” nature of gluten avoidance can really bite you if you have a true allergy. Waitresses mansplain what gluten is, and fast food workers look annoyed when you ask for special food preparation–because they think you’re eating this way for fun. You’re fully aware that a gluten sensitivity is real, because you have to live with it every day. Don’t let the gluten-free bandwagon get you down–at least you have hundreds of companies specially catering to your allergy. Right now, a small brewing company is contacting a supplier for sorghum seeds in Australia so you can drink gluten-free beer, and major brands are creating gluten free alternatives. Remember to ask for the allergy menu at restaurants even when the regular menu doesn’t list gluten free options. Make more of your favorite foods (like eggrolls) at home, and practice explaining–quickly–that yes, you know how gluten gets into food.
Metal Allergies
Sensitive skin can cause all kinds of inconveniences, but if you love jewelry, a metal sensitivity is a major downer. Instead of being able to buy gorgeous, inexpensive jewelry (especially earrings) you can feel forced to buy expensive items you don’t really love. Hypoallergenic earrings, however, are easier to find than you might think. You can also buy a few hypoallergenic earring hooks and attach them to the top of any earrings. All you need is a jewelry pliers, and you can quickly switch your hooks to any design–cheap costume jewelry or not.
Cat Allergies
The most common of pet allergies, a cat allergy will inconvenience you no matter what. Even if you don’t own a cat, you’ll still end up at the house of someone who does, for parties or events. If you have cat allergies, here’s a great article concerning cats that don’t shed. As you sneeze your way through the evening, you might curse the name of cats, or wish you could take one home with you, minus all this suffering. If you don’t want to own a cat, remember to keep 24 allergy stashed in your car, purse, or wallet at all times. Be ready for that cat dander attack. If you desperately need a kitty, look into hypoallergenic cat breeds and spend time with some. If your allergies are mild, certain breeds may give you few symptoms.