Can Pollen Allergies Make You Itchy All Over

What Are The Symptoms Of Allergic Rhinitis

Hay fever symptoms can appear throughout the year. Outdoor allergies are worse in the spring, summer and early fall. In warm weather, weeds and flowers bloom, and pollen counts are higher. Indoor allergies, such as those that result from pet dander and dust mites, can get worse in winter because people spend more time indoors.

Symptoms of hay fever include:

• Nasal stuffiness , sneezing and runny nose.
• Itchy nose, throat and eyes.
• Headaches, sinus pain and dark circles under the eyes.
• Increased mucus in the nose and throat.
• Fatigue and malaise .
• Sore throat from mucus dripping down the throat .
• Wheezing, coughing and trouble breathing.

An Overview Of Allergies That Can Cause Itchy Skin

The skin is the body’s largest, and probably most underestimated organ. Among its many functions, it serves to keep all good things in and harmful substances out. On the other hand, an n allergy is an immune response to what it deems a suspicious or harmful substance – one that would normally be considered harmless. These substances are called allergens, and the body’s oversensitive counter-reaction often manifests itself through itchy skin. Read on to learn more about how allergies affect the body.

Can Allergies Make You Tired Dizzy

Only some people who have allergies experience this problem: A study published in the Journal of the National Medical Association found that about 13 percent of people with nasal allergy symptoms experience dizziness due to inner ear problems. Treatment of allergy induced dizziness means treating the underlying cause.

Also Check: How To Cure Severe Allergies

Why Is My Throat Itchy

There are various things that may cause your throat to itch, many of which are common and relatively harmless.

Here are some of the most common itchy throat causes:

• Allergies Around 40 to 60 million Americans are affected by allergic rhinitis 3, of which an itchy throat is a common symptom
• Viral infections Flu, a cold and other viral infections can cause an itchy sore throat, which normally resolves itself over time1
• Bacterial infections Strep throat, a more serious condition caused by a bacterial infection, can make your throat feel itchy1. If the soreness of your throat increases severely, this could be a sign you have strep throat
• Dehydration When the body loses more water than it takes in, you can become dehydrated. In a warm, dry environment when your mouth and throat dont have enough saliva, that may lead to an itchy throat4
• Medication A side effect of certain medication may be a scratchy throat or dry cough. An allergy to a specific medication could also be a cause
• Acid reflux Also known as heartburn, if stomach acid enters the food pipe, irritation to your throat can be one of the various symptoms. If you have this condition, it can occur more often when lying down5
• Smoke Smoking cigarettes, spending time around others smoking, or smoke from an open fire can all cause throat irritation due to inhalation

Predisposition To Food Allergies

Tree pollen can resemble proteins that are constituents of several pitted fruits. For example, if you are found to be allergic to the birch tree, that allergen strongly cross-reacts with apple, peach, plum, celery, cherry, apricots, kiwi, hazelnuts, almonds, carrots, and some other fruits and nuts.

Symptoms of this type of allergy can include itchiness or swelling of the mouth, throat, and lips. The symptoms are usually localized to the mouth area and do not progress to other body parts. If you develop food allergies, you need to talk to your healthcare provider about medications you can take in case you become exposed.

Also Check: What Is The Study Of Allergies Called

Seasonal Allergies And Itchy Skin: What You Need To Know

by Enticare ENT | Jun 14, 2022 | Allergy

Do you suffer from itchy skin during certain times of the year? If you live with seasonal allergies, you may wonder if your allergies are to blame. Seasonal allergies can cause all sorts of problems, including itchy skin. Lets look at how seasonal allergies can cause itchy skin and what you can do to get relief.

What Is The Outlook For People Who Have Hay Fever

Hay fever can make you feel miserable, but it doesnt cause serious health problems. Most people with hay fever manage symptoms with lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medication.

People with airborne allergies have a higher risk of ear infections and sinus infections. Because hay fever can make it tough to get a good nights sleep, you may feel tired during the day. If you have asthma, hay fever can make your asthma symptoms worse.

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Common Causes Of An Itchy Throat

An occasional itchy throat could be caused by issues like the common cold, dehydration, even speaking loudly or cheering for an extended period . However, when the itchiness keeps returning, more than likely there are underlying causes that can include the following.

1. Pollen

Pollen is one of the common causes of hay fever. The immune system will overreact to grass, tree or weed pollen exposure, triggering an allergic reaction. Among the various allergy symptoms, an itchy throat is an uncomfortable and common response to pollen.

2. Food Allergies

Many foods can cause allergic reactions. Top causes of food allergy include peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs and fish. Within a few minutes of consumption of the problem food, an individual may experience a scratchy throat, swelling and tingling around the lips and tongue.

3. Sinus Infections

A sinus infection leads to a mucus buildup that drips down the back of the throat. This is called postnasal drip. Postnasal drip can keep you awake as it results in an itchy throat and cough, along with overall discomfort. In addition, youre likely to wake up with a scratchy or sore throat from excess mucus production.

4. Dust

Dust mites are found in most homes, and are a common source of aggravating allergic symptoms. People frequently experience an itchy throat, itchy roof of the mouth and itchy nose.

5. Animal Dander

6. Mold

7. Airborne Substances

Pollen Can Trigger Asthma

Pollen can directly trigger asthma and allergic rhinitis. Small particles of allergens can penetrate deep into the airways of the lung. Thunderstorms can also contribute to this:

• When pollen granules come into contact with water, starch granules are released that are small enough to be breathed into the airways, causing allergic rhinitis and asthma in some people
• People who wheeze during spring and/or summer, should see their doctor for advice.

Pollen seasons can last for months

In Australia pollen numbers are lower on the east coast where most winds come from the sea, and where there is protection from westerly winds by the Great Dividing Range. Pollen numbers are higher on the Victorian south coast because most winds are from the north carrying pollen from the northerly grasslands. In South Australia and Western Australia, the amount of pollen can vary according to the wind.

Pollination times vary with the plant variety and its location.

The principal grasses growing in the northern coastal areas are subtropical and mainly flower in January, February and March. Allergenic grasses in the southern part of Australia are mostly Northern hemisphere grasses, with the main flowering period from October to December.

Diagnosis is important

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Allergy Diagnosis And Treatment In Illinois

If you have allergies and notice symptoms such as the ones listed above, its best to see an allergist even if your symptoms are mild. You can get tested and find out what exactly you are allergic to so that you can avoid the allergens that are bothersome to you. In addition, you can come up with a treatment plan for when you do get exposed.

Request an appointment with Oak Brook Allergists if youre seeking relief from allergy symptoms, including itchy skin. Call 574-0460 to make an appointment. You can also request an appointment online. We look forward to serving you soon!

Dealing With Those Dreaded Seasonal Effects Of Itchy Skin In The Fall

As the years go by, seasonal allergies continue to worsen due to the amount of people who react to higher pollen counts. Seasonal allergies are also referred to as âhay fever,â and can happen during different times of the year. Seasonal allergies derive from allergens, most commonly pollen from plants, trees, grasses, and weeds.

Recommended Reading: How To Relieve Cough Due To Allergies

Treatment Options For Skin Reactions

Keep irritated skin clean to prevent infection or other complications. You can take frequent baths as long as you use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser. Doves sensitive skin unscented beauty bar is a good option for this.

Its also helpful to keep skin hydrated. When the skin barrier is disrupted, it develops microscopic cracks, loss of hydration, and inflammation. If you see dryness or peeling of the skin, give the skin what it needs: hydration, explained Dr. Zeichner. He recommends Kate Somervilles DeliKate Recovery Cream.

Finally, you can use a hydrocortisone cream to treat severely itchy skin. This Aveeno hydrocortisone anti-itch cream can be applied twice daily for up to two weeks to relieve inflammation.

For more information or to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist, call the experts at ENT of Georgia today.

Tips For Reducing Pollen Exposure

• Stay indoors until after midday, particularly in the pollen season and on windy days.
• Avoid going out during, or after thunderstorms, particularly when pollen counts are high.
• Wear sunglasses, carry tissues, shower when you arrive home, and rinse your eyes with water.
• Do not mow grass and stay inside when it is being mown. If mowing is unavoidable, wear a mask or take a non-drowsy antihistamine.
• Keep windows closed at home and in the car. Use recirculating air conditioning in the car.
• Do not picnic in parks or in the country during the pollen season.
• Try to plan holidays out of the pollen season or holiday at the seaside.
• If landscaping at home, research plants less likely to trigger allergic rhinitis or asthma. If you are sensitive to particular weeds or trees that are outside your bedroom window, have them removed.

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Allergic Rhinitis Is A Common And Debilitating Disease

• Allergic rhinitis affects around 18% of people in Australia and New Zealand.
• Allergic rhinitis predisposes people to more frequent sinus infections.
• People with allergic rhinitis are often tired due to poor sleep quality.
• Moderate or severe allergic rhinitis can affect general health, impair learning, increase time off work, and reduce productivity.
• Around 80% of people with asthma have allergic rhinitis, which can make asthma difficult to control.

What Is Hay Fever Or Allergic Rhinitis

Pollen, however, is one of the most common triggers to cause a seasonal allergy otherwise known as allergic rhinitis or hay fever. Many people confuse hay fever with the common cold and flu, as the symptoms are quite similar.

As hay fever is an allergic reaction, it is not contagious or transmissible by a vector, such as an insect. But allergies usually have an inheritance pattern, and can be passed from generation to generation so, if your father has a pollen allergy, there are chances that someone in your family such as you might experience it as well.

Cold, on the other hand, is a viral infection that is usually accompanied by a fever in addition to a runny nose, watery eyes, sore throat, and fatigue.

As you inhale the pollen, your immune system might recognize it as a threat and produce histamine and leukotrienes as part of an inflammatory response to the causative allergen.

These chemicals are responsible for causing rhinitis or nasal congestion, coughing, sneezing, and less commonly, a rash predisposing to itchy skin. As seasonal allergies are highly interconnected to asthma and eczema, they can often coexist as a triad known as atopic diathesis.

Atopic diathesis includes symptoms of asthma, allergic dermatitis , bronchial inflammation, and runny nose altogether.

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When Should I See My Healthcare Provider About Hay Fever

Although hay fever doesnt cause any serious health problems, you should see your provider to rule out other conditions, such as asthma. Seek care if hay fever symptoms are getting in the way of your daily life or making it hard for you to sleep. Your provider can help you identify the allergens that are causing a reaction and recommend treatments to help you feel better.

A note from Cleveland Clinic

Hay fever symptoms can affect your quality of life and keep you from doing the activities you love, but effective treatments are available. Millions of adults and children manage hay fever with medications and lifestyle changes. Talk to your provider about steps you can take to relieve symptoms, breathe easier and feel better.

Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 07/30/2020.

References

• Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. Rhinitis . Accessed 9/1/2021.
• American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology . Rhinitis Overview. Accessed 9/1/2021.
• InformedHealth.org . Cologne, Germany: Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care 2006-. Hay fever: Allergen-specific immunotherapy in the treatment of allergies. Accessed 9/1/2021.
• Wheatley LM, Togias A. Allergic Rhinitis. N Engl J Med. 2015 Jan 29 372:456-463. Accessed 9/1/2021.

Limit The Use Of Decongestants But Take Antihistamines

In the fight against other allergy symptoms, you may take decongestants. Decongestants bring relief to respiratory symptoms. But, they are dehydrating and can cause dry, itchy skin. Thats a terrible side effect when youre itchy to start. While taking decongestants, be sure to drink more than the recommended amount of water to keep your skin and the rest of your body hydrated.

Do take antihistamines to combat your itchy skin from seasonal allergies. Start taking your allergy medication at the first signs of symptoms and dont stop until allergy season ends. New generations of allergy medication dont cause drowsiness and are safe to take for an extended period of time.

A word of caution about discontinuing use of allergy medication: while the FDA doesnt officially recognize itching skin as a withdrawal symptom of cetirizine hydrochloride the internet is full of people that are faced with this side effect when they stop taking this allergy medication cold turkey.

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How Do Allergies Affect Skin

There are several ways the skin can be affected by allergies. For one, histamine causes inflammation, which can cause the skin to become more sensitive.

According to Dr. Marie Hayag, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Fifth Avenue Aesthetics, Our skin can react to allergens, causing hives, scaly patches, and eczema These skin reactions may be painful and itchy, causing you to scratch and damage your skin, which can lead to scarring or prolonged skin sensitivity.

Its also important to note that people with seasonal allergies are simply more likely to experience to skin irritations. Dr. Joshua Zeichner, director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mt. Sinai Hospital, explains, In predisposed people, exposure to allergens in the air can lead to widespread allergic skin rashes.

In the same vein, people with skin problems like eczema during childhood are more likely to develop seasonal allergies later in life, according to some studies. We know that theres a link between sensitive skin and eczema, asthma, and seasonal allergies. These three conditions genetically run together and are known as an atopic diathesis, said Dr. Zeichner.

Effective Treatments Are Available

Seek advice from your pharmacist or doctor about medications that will relieve your symptoms. Although medications do not cure allergies, they are much more effective with few side effects. It is important to use them correctly, and to avoid medications that can cause problems such as frequent decongestant nose sprays or tablets.

Antihistamine tablets or syrups help to reduce symptoms , but they are not as effective in controlling severe nasal blockage and dribble. The advantage of antihistamines is their flexibility you can take them when you have symptoms, and avoid them when you are well. Antihistamine eye drops can also be helpful in controlling watery eyes due to allergies.

Intranasal corticosteroid nasal sprays have a potent action on inflammation when used regularly . These need to be used regularly and with careful attention to the way in which they are used. Different brands of INCS vary in strength and effectiveness, so it is important to read the labels and check details with your pharmacist or doctor.

Combination medications containing an antihistamine and intranasal corticosteroid nasal spray are available and offer the combined advantages of both medications.

unblock and dry the nose, but should not be used for more than a few days as they can cause long term problems in the nose

Natural products such as salt water nasal sprays or douches can be effective in relieving symptoms.

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What Can You Do

Unless you’re prepared to settle down in a bunker, there’s no way to avoid the weather. But you can work around it and reduce your allergy symptoms.

• Pay attention to the weather. Check local pollen and mold counts. Watch for Ozone Action Days. Spend less time outside when you’re likely to have problems.
• Prepare for allergies. If you have the same allergy at the same time every year — ragweed in the fall or tree pollen in the spring — get ahead of it. Ask your doctor if you can start taking allergy drugs about 2 weeks before you usually start sneezing, coughing, or itching. That way, you can stop them before they start.
• Control your environment. You can’t change what’s happening outside, but you do have some control over conditions in your house. Use air conditioning to filter out mold and pollen. Use a dehumidifier to ward off mold growth and dust mites.
• Get the right diagnosis. Donât just guess whatâs causing your allergies. See your doctor to have an allergy skin test, which can show you exactly what triggers your symptoms. When you get the results, you might consider asking about immunotherapy, such as allergy shots or tablets that go under your tongue. They can help keep your allergies under control no matter what the weather or the season.

Show Sources

American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology: “Pollen ” “Outdoor Allergens: Tips to Remember ” “Ragweed Allergy ” and “Dust Allergy Management.”