Allergies can be caused by airborne allergens like pollen, mold spores and animal dander which may trigger symptoms like sneezing, nasal congestion and itchy eyes.
Seasonal allergies (commonly referred to as “hay fever”) are caused by specific allergens that vary based on climate and season, manifesting themselves through symptoms such as nasal polyps known as allergic rhinitis or conjunctivitis, both of which affect nasal membranes lining the nose or eyes respectively.
Spring
Your body responds to airborne substances called allergens at specific times of year by reacting with sudden rashes, itchy eyes, and runny noses that only exist for limited periods. Seasonal allergies (also called allergic rhinitis) often manifest themselves with itchy, watery eyes; nasal itching; or throat itching accompanied by sneezing; antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal corticosteroid sprays may provide temporary relief.
Warmer weather often brings with it more plants in bloom, leading to higher levels of allergens in the air. Tree pollen such as oak, elm, and pine pollen tend to wreak havoc in the Southeast while grass pollen is more prominent throughout the Midwest and Southwest regions; additionally mold spores may become an issue during hotter months.
Even mild spring rains can aggravate allergy symptoms. Heavy rainfall in Southern California has propelled plant growth, producing stunning wildflower blooms and an explosion of pollen from trees, grasses and weeds that has an adverse impact on allergy sufferers’ lungs.
Allergens cause allergic symptoms by stimulating your immune system to release antibodies against them, which then attack when exposed again. A skin prick test can reveal what substances cause an allergic response while an allergist offers tests for more common triggers. While allergies tend to strike children first, they can occur at any age.
Summer
Many people suffering from seasonal allergies find summer the most miserable time of the year. Pollen allergies tend to worsen at this time as trees produce new pollen from pollen-bearing trees; mold spore allergies can also worsen in damp weather environments.
As it’s important to keep in mind that allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and watery eyes resemble those of a cold, it is wise to consult your primary healthcare provider in regards to allergy tests if uncertain if what you’re suffering from is indeed allergies.
Ragweed, burning bush, cocklebur, sagebrush, tumbleweed and mugwort are among the many plants known to trigger summer and fall allergies. Ragweed allergies may lead to mild reactions in some individuals when exposed to certain fresh fruits and vegetables like bell peppers, eggplants, peaches and tomatoes. Pollen-Food Allergy Syndrome (PFAS) can lead to symptoms including itchy throats, hives and swelling in the mouth and lips. Other common summer allergens include grass and mold spores. Lower your exposure to allergens by staying indoors when pollen levels are high, keeping windows closed, and using an air conditioner. After being outdoors, regularly wash hands and change clothing so as to reduce pollen transference from clothes onto skin. Furthermore, avoid mowing lawns or raking leaves as this could stir up pollen or mold spores that could make breathing harder.
Fall
Fall allergy symptoms are more widespread than many realize. Allergy sufferers often experience itchy eyes and runny nose in autumn due to molds thriving in cool temperatures as well as pollen from trees, grass and weeds that peak this time of year. Other sources for allergy attacks may include Aspergillus fumigatus found on fallen leaves and decaying wood, along with changes in weather that promote allergy-inducing factors like ragweed.
Allergies cause symptoms like nasal congestion, itchy eyes and runny throat when airborne allergens like mold spores, pollen from trees, grass or weeds or dust mites come into contact with our immune systems and trigger histamines, leukotrienes or prostaglandins to be released by them; in response these release histamines leukotrienes or prostaglandins which then trigger symptoms known as seasonal allergies (also called Hay Fever), such as runny nose, watery eyes itchy throat or sneezing.
Allergies can be effectively managed using both prescription and over-the-counter antihistamines, eye drops and nasal sprays. People can further protect themselves by avoiding outdoor activities on high pollen days; wearing a mask when lawnmowing or working outdoors; washing their clothing/skin after spending time outdoors; closing windows when pollen counts increase; washing clothing and skin regularly after being outdoors and closing their windows whenever pollen counts rise; closing their windows during pollen count spikes; washing clothing after spending time outside; as well as closing windows when pollen counts increase; additionally considering consulting an allergist who will create a plan specifically tailored to them and minimize symptoms in case they need assistance in managing allergies effectively and minimising symptoms caused by their allergy condition(s).
Winter
Although most look forward to spring blooms, summer fun, and autumn leaf changes, winter can be an agony for those suffering from seasonal allergies. Their symptoms – such as sneezing and itchy eyes and throat – may flare at various points throughout the year due to different allergens causing anaphylaxis – yet are often worse in certain seasons.
Some individuals experience tree pollen allergies during spring, while others react to grass or ragweed pollen. Still others suffer seasonal allergies from molds and dust mites which worsen during the winter season.
Winter allergens include tree pollen from Birch trees, Juniper bushes or Cedar trees as well as mold spores and pet dander. Forced-air heating systems can exacerbate allergies further by blowing dust and other pollutants into the air; furthermore, cold, dry air can irritate nasal passages further making them sensitive to allergens.
Preventive measures can help lessen the impact of seasonal allergies during winter. This includes using HEPA air filters, washing bedding in hot water (130 F) weekly, and using allergen-proof mattress and pillow covers. If seasonal allergies impact you severely, immunotherapy (allergy shots) may offer long-term relief as these expose small increments of allergens over time and desensitize your immune system to them over time – for more information about treating seasonal allergies please reach out to Intermountain health providers today!
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