For the southern and midwest regions of the united states, the weather heating up warns of the approach of summer. Summertime covers the peak of allergy season, which starts in spring, until the very beginning of fall allergies. Even though season allergies a typically associated with spring and autumn, summertime allergies can be just as bad for some, if not worse. Depending on what you are allergic to will determine just how bad it is for you this summer. To help lessen the effects, we have put together this summer allergy guide to help you get the most out of the summer months.
Summer Allergy Guide: How to Deal with Summertime Allergy Symptoms
The Difference Between Allergies and a Summer Cold
Seasonal allergies and colds or the flu can share many symptoms, such as runny nose, congestion, coughing, sneezing, and watery eyes. Like a cold infection, allergies can cause post-nasal drip, creating the same symptoms. The significant differences are reoccurrence; colds or the flu may happen only a few times a year, while allergies will be triggered anytime you are exposed to allergens. The other big difference is fever and nausea, which are exclusive to colds and the flu.
Reducing or Stopping Allergy Attacks
The best way to prevent allergy symptoms is to avoid allergens altogether. However, this can be almost impossible if you do not have an acuate assessment of what you are allergic to; this can be made harder by the fact that as we age or allergies and sensitivities can change over time. If you have had attacks that have worsened over time or are lasting for longer than one to two weeks, we recommend getting an up-to-date allergy test to help find out what has changed. Once your allergies have been mapped, you can then take the steps needed to minimize exposure.
-Keep track of local pollen and mold spore counts
-Change air filters in your home regularly
-Pay attention to the humidity levels in the home
-Change your clothes and shower when coming in from activities outside or home from work.
-Close windows and doors to prevent contaminants from getting inside
-Regularly wash bedding, rugs, and vacuum carpets
Sometimes, like with mold and pollen, avoidance is impossible. In these cases, the best remedy might be medication to help manage symptoms or immunotherapy, which treats the allergy’s root cause; creating a tolerance helps lessen the severity of attacks or eliminate symptoms.
How Long Do Summer Allergies Last?
Depending on where you live and what you are allergic to, pollen and mold spores may not drop until the weather turns cold with the first frost of the winter. Checking the local forecasts will help give you a better idea of when relief will be in sight. The good news, however, is that medical advances in allergy research have had some important breakthroughs in immunotherapy. Make sure to talk to your doctor about the options available for your allergy sensitivities.