Seasonal allergies
Seasonal allergies, also known as allergic rhinitis or hay fever, are a type of allergic reaction that occurs when your immune system overreacts to allergens such as pollen, mold spores, and dust mites. These allergens are most prevalent during certain seasons, such as spring or fall.
Common symptoms of seasonal allergies include sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itchy or watery eyes, scratchy throat, and congestion. These symptoms can range from mild to severe and significantly affect your quality of life.
There are several ways to manage seasonal allergies, including:
Avoiding exposure to allergens: Stay indoors when pollen counts are high, keep windows and doors closed, and use air conditioning.
Taking over-the-counter medications: Antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal corticosteroids can help relieve symptoms.
Allergy shots: Immunotherapy, also known as allergy shots, can help reduce sensitivity to allergens over time.
There are several types of seasonal allergies. The specific allergens that trigger them may vary depending on where you live and the time of year. Some common types of seasonal allergies include:
Pollen allergies are the most common type of seasonal allergies triggered by pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds.
Mold allergies: Mold spores can be found indoors and outdoors, triggering allergies in the spring and fall.
Dust mite allergies can occur year-round, but symptoms may worsen in the fall and winter when people spend more time indoors.
Pet dander allergies: Some people may be allergic to the dander, saliva, or urine of pets, and symptoms may worsen in the fall and winter when pets spend more time indoors.
Insect sting allergies: For some people, stings from bees, wasps, or hornets can trigger an allergic reaction, which may be more common in the late summer and fall.
It's essential to identify the specific allergens that trigger your seasonal allergies so that you can take steps to avoid them and manage your symptoms effectively. It can be done through allergy testing with a doctor or allergist.