What Causes Summer Allergies and How to Avoid Them

Summertime can be a time when many allergy triggers are present. Pollen, dust mites, molds and animals are often the main culprits in respiratory allergies, causing symptoms such as sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, scratchy throat, nasal congestion, and runny nose. Some of the worst summer allergy offenders include weeds such as ragweed, Russian thistle, sagebrush and tumbleweed, and grasses such as blue grasses, Bermuda, and orchard.

The most common allergy trigger in the summer is ragweed, which is active in August. Even if it does not naturally grow where you live, it can travel for hundreds of miles, affecting you regardless. Thankfully, there are some ways to lessen the effects of these summer allergies. Try to stay indoors when the pollen count is high, and keep your doors and windows closed when you can to keep pollen out. It can also be helpful to clean the air filters in your home often, as well as clean spaces where pollen can collect, like bookshelves and vents. Also, after spending time outside, taking a shower and changing your clothes can keep you clean of pollen.

If you are still experiencing symptoms despite following these tips, medications such as antihistamines or nasal steroids sprays can help. For more severe cases, allergy shots or drops can alter the immune system to gradually become familiar with the allergen, reducing symptoms long-term.

If you are suffering from summer allergies, do not hesitate to call us today to schedule an appointment. Our specialists will construct a unique plan to help remedy your allergy symptoms.