Symptoms of seasonal allergies can be intense and annoying. These include runny nose, itchy eyes, swollen glands, red or irritated throat, and general malaise. It is possible to have an allergen that can cause these symptoms. As well, there are certain environmental factors that may cause them. Here, we will cover some of the more common allergies that can trigger symptoms of seasonal allergies.
The most common pollen and allergy-causing factor are the pollen count in the air. The pollen count in the air is measured by a special type of gadget known as a "wind meter" (used by many pollen researchers). This device can measure the number of grains per minute in the air. If more grains are present in the air than the machine can measure, then you are having an allergic reaction to pollen. For example, if there are high winds in the area where you live, then you could be allergic to a certain type of pollen.
The second common allergy causing factor is dust or mold. Mold spores can hide in many places; such as in the cracks of the floorboards and in the hidden corners of your home. When the dust or mold spore is breathed in by the lungs, it can trigger allergies to those parts of the body that have been contaminated by it. Most often, people who suffer from allergies to dust or mold develop runny, itchy eyes and/or nose. They may also experience sneezing as well.
Another type of allergy producing factor is insect bites. While many people are able to self-treat minor insect bites at home, there are some who have a severe allergic reaction when exposed to insect bites. Symptoms of allergic reaction to insect bites include swelling and redness around the bite site, hives, nausea, vomiting, and severe difficulty in breathing. If you believe that you have been stung by bees or wasps, then you should consult your doctor to determine whether your symptoms are caused by allergies to bee or wasp saliva. Your doctor can recommend an over-the-counter allergy medicine may help you overcome your symptoms of allergies.
Allergies to pollen and tree pollen are very common in spring, especially in the south. As the springtime approaches and the flowers begin to bloom, those with pollen allergies will begin to sneeze and/or cough. As the number of pollen particles in the air increase, this causes the air to become too smoky and for some individuals to have a hacking cough. It can also cause symptoms of hay fever in some people.
Other symptoms of allergies to pollen are watery eyes and conjunctivitis. Watery eyes can be caused by allergic reactions to dust or pollution. These symptoms are most common in the morning or right after a heavy rain. A heavy downpour may cause your watery eyes to become red and swollen, which may make it difficult for you to see clearly. To help alleviate the symptoms of watery eyes, try drinking more fluids and avoid staying out of direct sunlight for a longer period of time.
You should not wait until you start experiencing symptoms of allergies to pollen before taking your regular allergy medications. If you are having an outbreak, you should consult your doctor immediately to determine whether your seasonal allergy medication is working to control your symptoms. Your doctor may prescribe an antihistamine, corticosteroid, or an immunizer to help boost your immune system. The best way to keep your immune system healthy is to avoid all possible sources of allergens, such as pollen and dust mites. When you avoid them, you will be able to reduce the symptoms of seasonal allergies.
It is recommended that you avoid hand washing as much as possible. You should also wash your clothes inside out to minimize coming into contact with any allergens that may be on your clothes. Avoid tight-fitting or ill-fitting clothes and sleep in a room with a fan to keep your house free of dust mites and other allergens. If you cannot get to your allergens easily, you should try to use air-filters to clean your home. Your doctor can recommend specific filters for your room or house to help you lessen your exposure to various allergens.