What Happens During The Spring Allergy Season
When we talk about spring allergies, were talking about tree pollen, says Dr. Eidelman. In a temperate climate, there are three basic pollen seasons. You have spring which is tree season, summer brings more grass pollen and in the fall, you have more weed pollen and a little bit of mold.
He adds that in subtropical areas, there are still three main pollen seasons. However, the grass pollen season can be much longer and since these areas dont get winter weather or true frost to stop trees and plants from producing pollen, allergy seasons dont end.
If you feel like your spring allergies are worse year after year, youre not imagining things. What youve experienced was most likely due to global warming.
Dr. Eidelman explains.
With climate change, spring pollination has become worse during the last 10 to 20 years. As the seasons get hotter, were getting more pollen, longer pollination seasons and more intense pollination seasons. This seems to be a worldwide trend.
Beware Of Foods That Trigger Your Symptoms
If you have seasonal allergies to ragweed, be aware that eating certain foods may trigger your symptoms. “This is the concept of oral allergy syndrome,” Bassett says.
It’s a double-whammy, he says. About one-third of people with fall seasonal allergies will have a cross-reaction to certain foods, he says. Foods that might provoke symptoms in those with ragweed allergies, according to AAAAI, include bananas, cucumbers, melons, zucchini, sunflower seeds, and chamomile tea.
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Treatment For Seasonal Allergies
There are several ways you can treat your seasonal allergies on your own.
Avoid outdoor triggers. If possible, Dr. Hemphill recommends staying away from environments where your allergens might be present, and staying indoors with your windows closed on days with high pollen counts .
Protect yourself from pollen. If you must go outside, you can wear a mask covering your mouth and nose and wraparound glasses to keep pollen out of your eyes. You can also save outdoor activities for late afternoon. If you have a lawn, keep your grass cut short. Once you get back inside, rinse off to remove pollen from your skin and hair.
Keep your home triggers clean. Dr. Hemphill also recommends controlling what you can, such as keeping your pets regularly groomed to avoid pet dander. Brushing pets immediately after theyve been outside can also prevent pollen from entering your home. Regularly cleaning your home and repairing any leaks can help you avoid dust mites and mold.
Take medication. Several over-the-counter antihistamines can alleviate your seasonal allergies symptoms. These can come as pills, chewable tablets, capsules, liquids and eye drops. Common OTC antihistamines include cetirizine , fexofenadine and loratadine .
These medications are most effective when you take them before pollen season begins. That way, your body wont release histamine once the season starts and you can reduce or prevent your symptoms.
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Why Are Seasonal Allergies Worse At Night
It is common for people to experience worsening allergy symptoms at night. When you lay down, it causes whats in your nose to drip into your throat. This may cause more coughing, congestion, and even a sore throat. Propping up your head at night may help.
Also, throughout the day, you will collect outdoor allergens on your hair, skin and clothes. So to avoid tracking in pollen and other outdoor allergens, change clothes when you come in from the outdoors and take a shower before bed. You dont want to breathe in allergens all night long.
Lastly, symptoms of allergies may be worse at night if you also have an indoor allergy like mold, pet dander or dust mites.
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Risks And Side Effects
Antihistamines, corticosteroids and decongestants, as well as other OTC allergy medications, such as nasal sprays and allergy shots, are most often prescribed by doctors to counteract the effects of histamines produced by the body. However, they do have side effects, and sometimes they take weeks to begin working.
The most common side effects caused by allergy medications include:
- Drowsiness
- Dryness of the eyes, nose and mouth
- Restlessness
In children, side effects include:
- Nightmares
- Upset stomach
- Impaired cognitive function
Pharmaceutical allergy medicines, such as nasal sprays and allergy shots, simply arent for everyone. Remember, they dont cure the allergies they just treat the symptoms.
In fact, many arent recommended for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, or those with high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney or liver disease, glaucoma, or with thyroid problems.
How To Treat Seasonal Allergies
May 24, 2022, 8:00 PM
Springtime allergies are one of the most common medical problems evaluated by family physicians. At least 50 million Americans suffer from allergy symptoms at some time during the year, and 15% of children reportedly have allergy symptoms, says Dr. Mary Campagnolo, a family physician in Bordentown, New Jersey, and a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians board of directors.
The good news is that allergies are also easily and effectively treated. Heres what to know.
What Causes Allergies?
Allergy symptoms occur when a persons immune system reacts to an allergic trigger, says Dr. Todd Shaffer, a family physician in Kansas City, Missouri, and an AAFP board member. When the immune system is triggered by allergens, it makes histamines. Histamines cause swelling in the nose and eyes to stop allergens from entering the body. Histamines also cause sneezing to remove allergens from the nose, he says.
Common springtime allergies are mainly caused by tree pollen from birch, oak, cedar, willows and poplars, depending on the area of the country, he says. Grass pollen and blooming trees are also common sources of allergens.
Itchy eyes, nose, ears and mouth.
Stuffy nose.
Coughing, wheezing or difficulty breathing.
Are Allergies Ever Dangerous?
Fortunately, many good treatments for allergy are available inexpensively, over the counter, Campagnolo says. For example:
Oral antihistamines reduce allergy reaction and congestion.
These include:
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Dogs Can Experience Acute Allergic Reactions Including Anaphylactic Shock
The most worrisome part of any dog allergy is the possibility that your canine companion can go into anaphylactic shock. This is when dogs have a severe allergic reaction and besides the symptoms listed above, could include your dog struggling to breathe. Since anaphylactic shock affects the liver in dogs, you can also expect to see gastrointestinal symptoms like excessive drooling, seizures, vomiting, sudden diarrhea, and shock.
This kind of reaction can happen after your beloved pup is stung by a bee on a walk. Thankfully, anaphylactic reactions are rare.
If your dog experiences anaphylaxis, its a medical emergency. These reactions can be fatal if left untreated, but as long as you seek treatment immediately , your dog should fully recover.
If your dog experiences an anaphylactic reaction, get them to your veterinarian or an emergency veterinary hospital immediately.
Consider Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is purported to boost the immune system, help break up mucus, and support lymphatic drainage. Experts recommend mixing one to two tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with a glass of water and lemon juice three times a day to relieve allergy symptoms. These tips on how best to use apple cider vinegar will provide additional guidance.
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What Seasonal Allergy Management Approaches Are Available
In addition to antihistamines, seasonal allergies can be managed with other types of medications.
- Leukotriene modifiers treat seasonal allergic rhinitis. They are designed to block leukotrienes. Leukotrienes are the chemical involved in inflammation and swelling of the airways. The medication helps relieve both nasal congestion and swollen nasal passages.
- Mast cell stabilizers prevent the release of histamine that causes inflammation. They can ease symptoms such as runny nose, nasal stuffiness, sneezing, postnasal drip and itchy eyes.
- Anticholinergics treat seasonal allergic rhinitis and relieve nasal symptoms. They help by minimizing the formation of mucus.
- Nasal corticosteroid sprays prevent and soothe inflammation in nasal tissues and airways. They are available over-the-counter and by prescription.
- Allergen immunotherapy helps build a patients tolerance to allergens. It also can help reduce or eliminate symptoms. In allergen immunotherapy, the patient is given a gradually increasing dose of the allergen. This is done on a regular schedule, until a maintenance level is reached.
How Do You Permanently Stop Seasonal Allergies
For the moment, allergies cannot be cured.In some cases, there are over-the-counter and prescription medications that can be used to relieve symptoms as well.It is possible to avoid allergy triggers by staying away from them or by reducing contact with them.You might notice that your allergies gradually become less severe with immunotherapy over time.
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When To See A Healthcare Provider
Seasonal allergies are a fact of life for many people, but effective treatments are available. If you havent spoken with your healthcare provider about your allergies before, its a good time to have the conversation. If you notice changes to your allergy symptoms or the times you experience seasonal allergies, you should also talk with your healthcare provider.
Any time you’re experiencing facial or throat swelling, trouble breathing, or any other concerning symptoms, call 911 or seek medical help immediately.
How To Treat Seasonal Allergies In Dogs
Managing seasonal allergies in dogs is very similar to managing them in people: you have to reduce their exposure to allergens. Your goal is to at least alleviate, if not eliminate, your dogs symptoms. Treatment depends on what exactly is causing your dogs allergy. In general, the following tips should help.
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How To Get Rid Of Seasonal Allergies Naturally
One of the best natural remedies for treating seasonal allergies is allergen immunotherapy. Immunotherapy is a process by which the patient is given tiny amounts of the offending allergen. This is done gradually over time until a maintenance level is reached. Allergen immunotherapy can help reduce and eliminate symptoms.
Even without seeing an allergist, there are some at-home things you can do to reduce your symptoms:
- Saline nasal sprays available over-the-counter. These help flush out irritated nasal passages caused by allergies or overuse of decongestant nasal sprays.
- Nasal rinses and washeshelpful for people with nasal allergies. A solution of saltwater and baking soda is used. Using the solution in a rinsing device can help shrink swollen membranes, improve airflow, and open sinus passages. You can buy a premixed solution packet at pharmacies or make your own.
- Air filters high-efficiency particulate air filters help trap indoor airborne allergens, such as pollen, mold, dust mites or pet dander, before they can circulate in your home.
- Air conditioners and dehumidifiers help reduce moisture in the air. They also limit mold growth. An air conditioner is also helpful in cooling your home. This will limit the need to open windows, which would allow pollens into your home.
Does Benadryl Help With Seasonal Allergies
Benadryl® is a first-generation antihistamine. Antihistamines do exactly what they describe they block histamine. Histamine is the chemical released as an allergic response that causes allergy symptoms, including sneezing, runny nose, hives and red, itchy, watery eyes.
However, first-generation antihistamines tend to make you drowsy. Do not take them when you must do any activities that require you to be alert. Also, recent research suggests theres a link between long-term use of Benadryl and memory loss. So be sure to talk with your doctor before using Benadryl.
While Benadryl may work for your allergy symptoms, there are other option with fewer side effects.
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How Many People Suffer From Allergies
According to Dr. Eidelman, one out of five people has some sort of allergy and the intensity can range from very mild to severe.
He says people with mild allergies tend to just grin and bear it. They may not have any particular need for medication. If their allergies are a little bit more intense, they may take over-the-counter medications as needed.
But as you get further along that spectrum, the severity of the illness can become disabling. People feel very sick, they cant get out of bed, they cant sleep it can be intense. So, it all depends on where they are on that spectrum of intensity, he says.
Whats Causing My Seasonal Allergies
Like any allergy, hay fever develops when your bodys immune system becomes sensitized to certain particles in the environment that it considers dangerous. The seasonal allergies you have depend on the time of year when common outdoor allergens, according to American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology, like molds and fungi release their spores or when grasses, trees or weeds release pollen into the air.
During springtime, tree pollen is the most frequent culprit of allergies. Springtime is also coincidentally pollen season when pollination is at its peak. Then, summer tends to bring grass pollen allergies and fall ragweed allergies. To fight against any perceived invader, or allergen, your body releases chemicals, including histamine, into the bloodstream. And for allergy sufferers this results in allergy symptoms your irritating cough, runny nose or itchy throat.
The best route to take is to first test for allergies to see what it is that is causing the allergic reaction.
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Can You Be Cured From Seasonal Allergies
Is it possible to treat assitises?? ?The symptoms of allergies are controllable, even though they cant cure them.Dont expect an immediate resolution if you have to do it a bit later.Considering how you live, or how you move when an allergy attack occurs, will make a substantial difference in your survival chances.
When Do Seasonal Allergies Appear
Seasonal allergies are often associated with the springtime, but they can appear in any season depending on the pollen an individual is allergic to.
Common allergens and when they crop up include:
- Tree pollen, which typically appears in spring
- Grass pollen, which appears in late spring and summer
- Mold spores, which often trigger seasonal allergies in the spring, summer and fall
- Ragweed pollen, which appears in the fall
Some folks may experience seasonal allergies year-round if they are allergic to something in each season.
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When Is Louisiana Allergy Season
The Louisiana allergy season can often last a long time, particularly the spring allergy season. Spring allergies can start as early as February if weather conditions are right, and they can last well into May. Some trees may produce pollen even longer. Fall allergies can also last into November due to the mild climate.
How To Cope With Hay Fever Symptoms
Regardless of whether your allergies are mild or severe, or if it is a skin or eye allergy, it doesnt take long for you to start feeling lousy after seasonal allergy symptoms strike. So how do you prevent seasonal allergies from getting in the way of your day? Here are some helpful tips to reduce or keep symptoms from worsening.
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Signs And Symptoms Of Seasonal Allergies
- Red, watery, or swollen eyes
- Runny nose, swollen muzzle, trouble breathing, coughing
- Itchiness, flaky skin, scratching, red skin, fur loss
- Biting, excessive licking
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Chronic ear infections
Allergies have even been linked to problem behaviors like mounting, hyperactivity, begging, attention seeking, and excessive grooming, according to a study from the University of Nottinghams School of Veterinary Medicine. This research suggests that more intense allergy symptoms can create psychological stress for dogs.
According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, about 15% of dogs with allergies develop inflammation inside their nose leading to asthma.
Allergies can also lead to secondary infections. As your dog licks or scratches their skin to stop the symptoms, theres a chance that they could break through their skin. This can lead to opening up their skin to yeast and bacterial infections.
These symptoms could be a sign of another underlying condition. Always speak to your veterinarian to get a diagnosis.
How To Treat Seasonal Allergies Naturally And Quickly
Youre wondering how to treat seasonal allergies naturally and quickly? Read on to learn everything! Many people suffer from seasonal allergies. A lot of people want to relieve their allergies naturally instead of using prescription or over-the-counter drugs. As you know, most people go to the doctor. However, if you would rather treat your seasonal allergies naturally at home, you are in the right place. We will talk about some things that you can do to help alleviate your allergy symptoms.
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How Do You Treat Seasonal Allergies
Not everyone needs to treat their seasonal allergies. If you find that your symptoms are mild and dont affect your quality of life, theres no real need.
If your allergies are more than an occasional nuisance, youll likely want to explore some treatment options. For not-so-severe allergies, over-the-counter medication is a great first line of defence. A number of OTC antihistamines are available, many providing 12 to 24-hour relief from symptoms.
Nasal rinses and sprays are also available without a prescription and can lessen or get rid of nasal symptoms entirely. Some OTC medications even combine their decongestant properties with antihistamines to address multiple symptoms.
If youve tried every OTC allergy medication at your local pharmacy and youre still looking for relief, speaking to an allergist should be your next step. In this case, they might suggest a prescription medication or even an injection for relief of your seasonal allergies.
If your seasonal allergies are quite severe, however, immunotherapy might be the best course of action. A relatively new treatment for allergies both food and seasonal immunotherapy involves desensitization.
