Seasonal allergies cause runny noses, itchy eyes and other symptoms only during specific times of year. They are caused when airborne allergens such as pollen or mold spores interact with an overly sensitive immune system and provoke symptoms.
Tree pollen allergies tend to peak in spring, with grass (also known as “hay fever”) allergies peaking during the summer and ragweed becoming problematic come autumn.
Pollen
Pollen, also known as allergens, is the primary trigger for seasonal allergies. Trees, grasses or weeds that release pollen particles into the air to fertilize other plants may trigger our immune systems into treating them as invaders and release chemicals such as histamines into our bloodstream to combat pollen, leading to symptoms like runny noses and itchy eyes.
Different regions experience different pollen seasons. For instance, in the arid Southwest mountain cedar pollen is likely to trigger allergies between December and March; sagebrush and Russian thistle blooming throughout summer and fall are known to cause hay fever attacks; other pollen sources could include ragweed in spring/late summer as well as mold spores in autumn.
Doctors can diagnose seasonal allergies based on a patient’s symptoms, history and test results. Antihistamines and decongestants may provide some relief to reduce allergy symptoms.
Prevent or reduce allergy symptoms by limiting exposure to pollen they’re sensitive to. A pollen forecast available online or via weather apps can assist in planning outdoor activities; when possible, avoid doing yard work such as mowing in the morning when pollen counts are at their highest and save outdoor play for after dark when pollen counts have subsided. Indoors, keep windows closed and use recirculation fans.
Mold
Molds are microscopic fungi-like organisms that thrive in damp places indoors. Feeding on whatever they find to grow on, molds reproduce by sending out thousands of light spores into the air – some of which land in other damp spots or surfaces and cause allergy symptoms when breathed in by humans. Mold is often used generically as an umbrella term; specific kinds include mildew and immunosuppressant drugs like Cyclosporine.
Mold allergies often manifest with symptoms like watery eyes, itchy nose or throat and wheezing. Mold allergies tend to be especially prevalent among those with compromised immune systems or chronic lung conditions such as obstructive pulmonary disease or emphysema.
For optimal mold growth control, clean wet areas as soon as they become damp – within 48 hours at most if possible. Discard any porous items such as wallpaper, carpeting and pad, drywall, wood products and insulation material which cannot be thoroughly cleaned; additionally open windows and use fans to speed drying processes while opening windows to add airflow; finally if moisture issues continue call in professionals for assistance.
Dust
Seasonal allergens include pollen from trees, grasses and weeds; mold spores; and pet dander (tiny flakes of dead skin) found both airborne and within household dust. When inhaled, your immune system reacts by producing chemicals to attack these irritating agents causing your nose, eyes and throat to itch and inflame as your immune system releases chemicals to target these irritants; in turn leading to itchy nose, eyes and throat with inflammation as a result; while some individuals develop asthma.
Hay fever symptoms typically manifest themselves during seasons when certain allergens are at their most prevalent. Springtime brings tree pollen; summer sees many types of grass release their pollen; fall brings on ragweed pollen that spreads miles with every breeze; while indoor allergens like pet dander, mold, and dust mites could contribute.
Over-the-counter antihistamines, decongestants and nasal sprays can provide quick relief from runny nose, sneezing and itchy, watery eyes. For severe allergies, an otolaryngologist may provide over-the-counter or prescription allergy medication such as corticosteroid nasal sprays that reduce inflammation while simultaneously relieving symptoms.
Immuntherapy may provide relief for persistent allergies. Allergen immunotherapy involves gradually exposing yourself to controlled amounts of an allergen over a number of years to reduce sensitization; we offer this service at our offices through injections into subcutaneous fat (subcutaneous immunotherapy, or SCIT). Treatment typically lasts three to five years before maintenance doses can be discontinued and your immunotherapy plan complete.
Animals
Allergies result from our immune systems reacting to airborne substances such as pollen at certain times of year. When these allergens enter our bodies, our body treats them like foreign invaders and releases chemicals such as histamines, leukotrienes and prostaglandins as a defense mechanism against them. This causes symptoms including runny noses, sneezing fits and itchy skin to appear.
As with people, our pets may also experience seasonal allergies. Pets may become allergic to pollen, spores and other substances which typically appear during spring or fall and cause symptoms like itchy red skin that develops licking and chewing to such an extent that hair loss or sores appear; also itchy eyes or frequent ear infections may ensue.
However, there are multiple strategies available to you to manage seasonal allergies in your pet. Antihistamines, steroid nasal sprays, and decongestants may all help lessen their body’s response to allergens; oral anti-itch medications like Apoquel and Cytopoint may be recommended if they experience extreme itchiness.
One way to reduce allergic reactions in your pet is by keeping its fur as clean as possible. Regular baths with hypoallergenic shampoo can help remove allergens from skin and coat. Furthermore, adding omega-3 fatty acids into their diet may also help decrease inflammation and enhance skin health; for more specific advice speak with a veterinary professional.
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