Understanding and Managing Environmental AllergiesFind Relief from Pollen, Dust, Mold, and More.
Environmental Allergies: What You Need to Know
What Are Environmental Allergies?
Environmental allergies, also known as allergic rhinitis, occur when your immune system overreacts to substances in your surroundings like pollen, dust mites, pet dander, mold, and pollutants. When you inhale these allergens, your body releases chemicals like histamine, which can cause bothersome symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, itchy eyes, and nasal congestion.
Common Environmental Allergens:
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Pollen: Trees, grasses, and weeds release pollen, especially during spring and fall seasons.
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Dust Mites: Microscopic organisms that live in household dust.
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Mold: Spores released by mold thrive in damp environments like bathrooms and basements.
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Pet Dander: Tiny particles shed from the skin, fur, or feathers of pets.
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Airborne Pollutants: Smoke, chemicals, and other pollutants in the air.
Symptoms of Environmental Allergies
Symptoms of environmental allergies can range from mild to severe and vary from person to person. Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Sneezing
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Coughing
- Postnasal drip
- Fatigue (due to prolonged allergy symptoms)
Diagnosis: How Do You Know If You Have Environmental Allergies?
To confirm whether you have environmental allergies, your healthcare provider may perform:
- Skin Prick Testing: Small amounts of allergens are applied to your skin to see if you have a reaction.
- Blood Tests (ImmunoCAP): These tests measure the level of allergic antibodies in your blood.
How to Manage Environmental Allergies
Avoidance
The best way to prevent allergic reactions is to avoid known triggers:
- Stay Indoors: On high-pollen days or during windy weather.
- Clean Regularly: Dust and vacuum often to reduce dust mites and dander.
- Use Air Filters: HEPA filters can trap allergens in the home.
Medications
There are various over-the-counter and prescription medications that can help manage allergy symptoms:
- Antihistamines: Reduce sneezing, itching, and runny nose.
- Decongestants: Provide temporary relief from stuffy nose.
- Nasal Sprays: Steroid-based sprays can reduce inflammation in the nasal passages.
