What to do About Summer Allergies

Symptoms

The symptoms of summer allergies are the same as any other seasonal allergies and can often be mistaken for a summer cold. Coughing, sinus congestion, runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, and itchy or watery eyes are some symptoms to watch out for.

 

Grass

Grass pollen reaches its highest levels in the summer months. It may not even be from your own grass, the wind can carry the microscopic pollen for miles. Some of grasses that trigger allergies are Bermuda, Johnson, Kentucky, Orchard, Redtop, Rye, Sweet vernal, and Timothy. You could be allergic to just one type of grass or to many types. If you are allergic to the type of grass on your own lawn, it may help to keep it mowed. Most types of grasses only release their pollen when they grow tall. Those feathery flowers that you may sometimes see on tall grasses is the source of the pollen for most types of grasses. Grass allergies are very common.

 

Dust Mites

Dust mites thrive in warm, humid weather and peak during summer months. Dust mites nest and make their homes in beds, fabric, and carpets. Their residue can travel in the air and cause allergic reactions. We’ve all heard of spring cleaning, but it may be just as important to do a deep summer cleaning as well just to be sure there are no dust mite critters making your home their own.

 

Mold

The microscopic spores from mold can also be traveling around the air in your home. The humid heat of the summer is a molds favorite condition to thrive in. Inspect areas that stay damp like bathrooms or basements or even air conditioning units.

 

Testing

Allergy tests are available to pinpoint the cause of your allergic reaction. Your skin will be pricked with small amounts allergens to evaluate your body’s reaction. Blood work can also be done to identify antibodies.

 

Treatments

Treatments can include prescription medications, lifestyle changes, or immunotherapy. Immunotherapy involves injecting small amounts of an allergen until your body builds up a tolerance to the allergen.

 

While you may be tempted to suffer through the sneezing and watery eyes, there are treatments available that can help make your summer more comfortable. Spring + Heights Hospital offers comprehensive allergy care. If you’re experiencing symptoms of allergies this season, call us today and we’ll help get you started on a treatment plan that will have you feeling better in no time.