How to Avoid Spring Allergies: While the cause of allergies is unknown, the body's immune system produces antibodies when it comes into contact with a foreign substance, called an allergen. These antibodies, called IgE antibodies, mistake the foreign matter as dangerous and produce histamine to cause an allergic reaction. Luckily, there are ways to avoid spring allergies and manage your symptoms throughout the season. Here are some facts to consider:

Pollen

If you suspect you have an allergy to pollen, the first step is to see a doctor. A doctor can ask you questions about your allergies and your history of allergic reactions. A skin test may be recommended, or the doctor may suggest that you try a specific food or allergen. In some cases, a food challenge is performed, where the patient eats a certain amount of a food while the allergist observes.

If you are unsure whether you have an allergy to pollen, your doctor can conduct an allergy test. Some allergic reactions to pollen are not related to food or other conditions, such as hay fever or eczema. Symptoms usually occur in the upper respiratory tract, while others can be caused by an environmental allergen, such as dust or pet dander. If you have a severe allergy to pollen, however, you should seek medical attention.

Mold spores

There are many reasons why people are allergic to mold - indoors, outdoors, and in their cars. This fungus, also known as a mycobacterium, grows in dark, moist places. While not all molds cause allergies, those who live in damp or dirty environments are at a higher risk for developing allergies. In addition to causing allergic reactions, mold exposure can trigger asthma attacks, which can lead to serious health problems.

Pollen season in the fall is also associated with higher mold spore counts. Because mold grows in decaying plant matter, a person is more likely to be exposed to these spores during these seasons. Activities like gardening in mulch or taking long hikes in the woods can increase mold spore exposure. In the Midwest, pollen season is the only season that causes allergies, but the warmer months of winter can temporarily increase mold spore counts, especially in the wettest areas.

Mold

While the exact cause of mold allergy is unknown, this chemical released by the allergy cells in the body can lead to immediate or delayed symptoms. It can even worsen respiratory conditions such as asthma. Damp rooms and basements can contribute to the worsening of these allergies. More serious cases may even lead to allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis, an inflammatory and allergic reaction to mold that mimics the symptoms of asthma.

In addition to outdoor environments, mold spores can be found indoors, in hay from stables, and in wood and rotting wood. Airborne spores are easily carried by the wind and can attach to clothes and shoes. People with allergies are encouraged to limit outdoor activities. It's also a good idea to install high-efficiency particulate air filters in rooms with air conditioning. Mold allergy symptoms in spring allergies

Grass pollen

Allergies to grass pollen are most often characterized by allergic inflammation of the nasal mucosa. In addition to the symptoms of allergy, grass pollen allergy can also lead to other respiratory tract diseases. However, there are several precautions that can be taken to minimize the risk of allergy and the side effects that can be associated with grass pollen allergies. Let's discuss these precautions and how to reduce the risk of grass pollen allergies.

Avoid being outdoors between the hours of 5am and 10am. Dry your clothes indoors instead of outside and keep your windows closed. Another way to reduce exposure is by staying indoors during peak pollen season. If you can't avoid the pollen completely, you can wear a face mask and avoid mowing the lawn altogether. If you can't avoid grass pollen, however, there are medications that can help you deal with the symptoms of grass pollen allergy.

How to Avoid Spring Allergies