Seasonal allergies are here. How can you manage them?
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 25% of U.S. adults suffer from seasonal allergies. Common allergy symptoms include sneezing, headache, nasal congestion, runny nose, fatigue, and itchy eyes and nose.
Seasonal allergies are triggered by pollen and mold, which are influenced by weather factors such as wind, rain and heat. In recent years, changes in our climate have led to warmer seasonal temperatures and variations in rain patterns. This causes plants to bloom earlier and extends the period people are exposed to increased pollen and mold.
In some people, inhaling pollen causes their immune systems to overreact. The immune system sees the pollen as a danger and releases antibodies that attack the allergens. That leads to the release of histamines into the blood. Histamines trigger runny noses, itchy eyes and other allergy symptoms.
Studies also show that seasonal allergies are disproportionately underdiagnosed in Black and Hispanic individuals, and that these populations are less likely to receive long-term treatments. This disparity points to limited access to specialists and testing; implicit bias among healthcare providers; more exposure to indoor allergens, such as mold and dust mites; and higher air pollution in underserved areas.
Health experts say that season allergies are not just physically uncomfortable, they can also impact a person’s behavioral health. Seasonal allergies are linked symptoms of anxiety, depression, poor concentration and productivity, and interruptions in sleep.
This makes it especially important for anyone with severe allergy symptoms to seek the help of their primary care doctor or an allergy-immunology specialist. Your doctor may suggest tests to help find the cause of your allergies so you can avoid things that trigger your symptoms.
In some cases, immunotherapy may be helpful. This treatment involves getting shots or oral medications that contain a small amount of a certain allergen. Over time, your body gets used to the allergen and reacts less - helping prevent or reduce some allergy symptoms.
While it’s important to receive the medical care you need, there are other steps you can take to manage your symptoms. These include eating a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables; reducing your exposure to allergy triggers by staying indoors and keeping the windows closed when pollen counts are high; and using over-the-counter allergy medications.
You may also alleviate allergy symptoms by rinsing your eyes with saline eyedrops and using a saline nasal wash to clear out pollens and mucus. Taking a shower and changing your clothes after you work or spend time outside may offer additional relief.
California’s warm temperatures mean allergy season can extend from late January to early October. Getting ahead of the allergy season by taking these steps can make a big difference. For more advice on how to manage or treat seasonal allergies, it is best to speak with your healthcare provider.
Pacific Federal is a Zenith American company and subsidiary of Harbour Benefit Holdings, Inc.
