What are Seasonal Allergies?
Seasonal Allergies are symptoms that occur during specific points in the year. Most seasonal allergies are caused by spores that are in the air that contain mold. These mold spores can originate from trees, grasses, and weeds. These originators can release the spores into the air to fertilize other plants. Some people might begin to feel a little off as these spores are introduced into the air. The immune systems of people with seasonal allergies may not be able to handle the spores correctly and begin to think that they are invaders entering the body to cause harm. This is where the allergy comes in to play.
People can be allergic to these spores, and their body tends to fight them off. When these spores enter the body, it begins to release chemicals such as histamine into the bloodstream to defend against the spores. A person can be allergic to one or more of the different kinds of spores that they may come in contact with. The type of allergy one is prone to in the season dictates the kind of symptoms that someone might display. Seasonal allergies can affect anybody if they are introduced to a spore that they are allergic to.
Symptoms
Seasonal Allergies can bring along many symptoms that are less than pleasurable. You may be experiencing season allergies if you are sneezing and notice some nasal congestion. When your allergy symptoms start to appear, they can progress to becoming mild or even severe based on your exposure to the allergen. If you have are experiencing any of the symptoms listed below, it may be possible that you are suffering from seasonal allergies. You can use this list as a checklist to take with you if you decide to see a doctor. Symptoms include:
- Watery and Itchy eyes
- Itchy sinuses, throat and/or ear canals
- Ear congestion
- Postnasal drainage
Less common symptoms appear as - Headache
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing
- Coughing
While these symptoms are common and easily treated, other symptoms may affect people differently. Allergies may cause those that have asthma to have an asthma attack. Asthma attacks can be life-threatening events if not treated correctly.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Seasonal allergies are often diagnosed by a doctor checking our ears, nose, and throat to make a diagnosis. Testing is not usually necessary as the treatment is not specific to what allergen you react to. The best way to treat seasonal allergies is to stay away and avoid potential allergy triggers such as pollen, mold spores, fungus spores, and other allergens that may be in the air. Most local news outlets that share a weather report also have a pollen forecast available to see what pollens may be in a specific area as well as the expected volume of pollens. When avoidance is not necessarily possible, there are many ways to treat seasonal allergies with over the counter medications.
These over the counter medications can include decongestants and antihistamines that available at your local drugstore. Some medications, however, have side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion, so it is essential to make sure you are in a safe place when using them. It is imperative that you consult your primary health care provider before attempting to self-medicate to ensure that you are using medications that are safe for you to use.