What causes seasonal allergies?
- Seasonal allergies are caused by specific allergens such as ragweed, grass, or tree pollen. When these allergens come in contact with your body, they are considered foreign particles.
- The allergens bind themselves to mast cells that are loaded with histamine.
- In response, your immune system starts to release large quantities of histamine and other chemicals from these mast cells to combat the allergens. It is the histamine action that produces the symptoms of sneezing, coughing, nasal congestion, red, itchy, and watery eyes.
Seasonal allergic reactions can begin at any age. Areas that have poor air quality can result in more intense symptoms.
How do you prevent seasonal allergies?
Unfortunately, seasonal allergy symptoms can be difficult to stop completely.
The first step in managing your allergies involves avoiding the specific allergen you are allergic to. This can be difficult, especially if you are active outdoors in the summer.
Simple ways to get some relief include:
- Keeping the windows of your home and turning on the air conditioner
- Remembering that pollen release is at its peak in the morning/early afternoon
- Making sure the filters in your furnace are clean
- Using an air purifier in your living spaces
How do you treat seasonal allergies?
- Oral over-the-counter antihistamine medications taken during allergy season
- Allergy shots (for severe allergies)
- You can achieve additional comfort by placing a clean face cloth soaked in ice-cold water over closed eyes