Allergies occur when your immune system overreacts to airborne substances called allergens. Common symptoms of an allergic reaction include runny or stuffy nose, sneezing and itchy, watery eyes (allergy conjunctivitis). People who experience seasonal allergies are also more likely to have asthma symptoms.
Allergies can be diagnosed by either a doctor or allergist using skin tests or blood tests, with seasonal allergies usually peaking from spring through early fall when trees, grasses and weeds produce pollen.
Spring
As flowers blossom and trees budding out, millions of people face spring allergies (also known as hay fever). Seasonal allergies cause runny nose, itchy eyes and other unpleasant symptoms to manifest themselves at certain times of the year due to various allergens present. Allergy specialists can assist people in managing allergy symptoms to make sure everyone enjoys this beautiful season to its fullest.
Pollen is one of the primary triggers of seasonal allergies, released from trees, grasses and weeds to fertilize other plants. Pollen grains resemble fine yellow dust and are carried through the air by wind currents to cause allergic reactions for those suffering from hay fever. Pollen levels typically peak between April and May and often remain elevated until May or June.
Allergy medications, which are available over-the-counter and come in pill or liquid forms, may help alleviate symptoms. Antihistamines can soothe itching and swelling while nasal sprays and decongestants may be beneficial in clearing congestion. Furthermore, allergy shots offer another treatment option by administering series of injections at your doctor’s office to build immunity against certain allergens.
Many people with allergies turn to natural treatments as an additional means to managing their symptoms, including neti pots and nasal rinses that flush nasal passageways with salt water to clear away mucus and debris build-up.
Summer
Allergies during summer can make outdoor activities uncomfortable and even lead to frequent sneezing fits, due to allergens like pollen from trees, grasses and weeds; mold spores; or insect stings causing symptoms.
Pollen allergies often lead to symptoms including sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes and throat or mouth itching. Your immune system’s reaction is to release chemicals to attack and destroy allergens – over time this creates an overreaction resulting in allergy symptoms.
Avoiding exposure to allergens that cause seasonal allergies is the best way to find relief. Closing windows, wearing a mask when mowing the lawn and clearing away leaves and branches are all effective strategies to limit contact with allergens. If you do suffer from seasonal allergies, over-the-counter antihistamines and decongestants may help ease nasal congestion; alternatively if sneezing persists frequently your primary care provider may suggest nasal spray with steroids which will reduce inflammation in your sinuses and reduce inflammation/swelling/swelling/swelling in your sinuses/inflamed inflammation/swelling in your sinuses/inflammed sinuses/or inflammation/swelling of sinuses/inflamed sinuses/inflamed areas/inflamed areas may provide relief;
Although most allergens decrease during winter, indoor allergens like dust mites, pet dander and indoor mold still pose problems for some people. Air pollution increases significantly in summer due to sunlight combined with car emissions; additionally stinging insects such as bees, wasps and hornets may trigger allergic reactions in susceptible individuals.
Fall
As autumn begins, symptoms such as itchy eyes, runny nose and sneezing often emerge as soon as ragweed season has ended. Mold allergies may also present themselves at this time of year. According to allergy specialists, medication should be started several weeks ahead of the fall season in order to monitor local pollen counts more closely.
As temperatures become colder, allergenic plants like ragweed begin to produce less allergens; however, other plants like burning bush, cocklebur, pigweed, sagebrush and tumbleweed continue to release pollen until freezing temperatures arrive late November. Fungus such as alternnaria can also become a nuisance inside homes and gardens alike.
Experts advise allergy sufferers to take steps during this season by remaining indoors, avoiding areas with dense weed growth, and closing windows when pollen counts are high. Showering immediately after spending time outdoors to wash away pollen deposits on clothing can help, while using a HEPA air filter in your home can further help reduce allergens that circulate through it.
Allergens can also trigger oral allergic reactions in those sensitive to ragweed. Eating popular fall produce such as cantaloupe, zucchini and watermelons could trigger an adverse reaction if someone has an allergy against these items.
Winter
Pollen production by trees, grass and ragweed may decrease during winter months; however, that does not apply to common indoor allergens like dust mites, pet dander and mold spores which remain persistent triggers of allergy symptoms. Furthermore, many people tend to spend more time indoors during this season which increases exposure.
Allergies may cause similar symptoms as colds, including runny nose, sneezing, itchy eyes and nasal congestion – with allergies typically lasting much longer and becoming more severe than their counterpart.
Locating the source of one’s symptoms is key for effective treatment, so if they experience ongoing allergy-related symptoms that fail to be relieved by over-the-counter medicines it may be beneficial to consult an allergist for advice.
Allergists use IgE blood testing to pinpoint the allergen(s) triggering allergic reactions and recommend an appropriate course of treatment. Common signs that require medical consultation include chronic nasal congestion, sneezing and itchy eyes as well as skin reactions like hives or allergic dermatitis – it’s crucial to identify these triggers early to avoid more serious complications down the road.
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