subject: Allergies-understanding How They Affect Your Ear, Nose And Throat This Season [print this page] First, the good news: it's fall! The bad news, however, is that this may also mean allergies. Allergies are a short-term inflammation of the mucous membranes that line the nasal passages. As it is commonly called "Hay fever," airborne pollens from trees, grasses, flowers, and weeds cause seasonal allergies. Allergy season typically kicks off in the spring and fall when certain trees or grasses pollinate. When pollen season begins and how long it lasts varies throughout the country.
In southern states, trees can start pollinating as early as late February and grass can start by the end of April, while in Midwestern states allergies may not flare up until May. Another round of seasonal allergies can begin in late summer or early fall when ragweed is the common culprit. In western states, grass pollinates for a longer period of time and certain weeds exist that can keep allergies blooming into the fall. Not only can allergies be seasonal, but they can also include foods, pets, and others.
What are Seasonal Allergies?
A seasonal allergy is an allergic reaction to a trigger that is typically present for part of the year, such as spring or fall. This type of allergy often refers to a pollen allergy, such as trees, weeds and grasses. Perennial allergies, on the other hand, are usually present year-round, and include allergens such as pet dander and house dust mites. Molds can also be a season or perennial allergy trigger. Symptoms of season allergies often include:
*Sneezing
*Runny nose
*Nasal congestion
*Itching of the nose
*Post-nasal drip
Not everyone will experience all of the symptoms of hay fever, and in some people only one symptom will predominate. You may find it difficult to tell the difference between seasonal allergies and the common cold, and only an allergist may be able to tell the difference.
Dealing with Fall Allergy Symptoms
You can nip seasonal allergies in the bud by staying indoors on dry, windy days because the best time to go outside is after a good rain, which helps clear pollen from the air. Be sure to also delegate lawn mowing, weed pulling and other gardening chores that stir up allergens. After being outside, remove clothes you have worn-you may also want to shower in order to rinse pollen from your skin and hair.
Additionally, you should try the following to help keep your allergies at bay:
*Keep windows and doors closed in order to keep pollen outside
*Keep dust mites where you sleep to a minimum by washing sheets often
*Reduce mold presence by decreasing moisture around the house with a dehumidifier
*Clear damp firewood and leaves from the yard
*Wash your hair-pollen accumulates on your hair and skin
Whether you suffer from seasonal allergies, or other allergies, such as dogs or cats, it is important to visit your ENT in Hagerstown for further diagnosis and treatment planning. Your ENT will be able to properly diagnose your allergies and provide you with a way to relieve your symptoms.
