Invisible and unseen particles or substances in the environment can cause allergic reactions for some people. They exist in many forms, including pet dander, mold, and pollen. Weeds, grass, and trees release allergens in the air, while pet dander comes from the proteins and skin cells that mammals generally shed. Dust mites, too, are a form of allergen and live sneakily in your upholstery, bedding, and carpet. This means it is possible to suffer from allergies at any point of the year. AFC Urgent Care Hillsdale can provide the best options for allergy relief.
Common Allergy Symptoms
Not every person will have the same allergy symptoms, and they can be more or less severe than others. The types of allergies can also depend on the triggers. Common symptoms of environmental allergies include:
- Blocked, runny, itchy nose, or sneezing
- Cough and breathing difficulty
- Chest tightness
- Wheezing
- Watery eyes
- Itchy and red eyes
- Cracked, red, or dry skin
Environmental Causes of Allergy
Depending on the time of year, some allergy triggers are more prevalent than others. For example, tree pollen is most common in Spring, and ragweed on plants is common in the Fall. Let’s look at some of the common allergens below:
- Pollen- symptoms of being allergic to pollen include itchy throat, watery eyes, and sneezing.
- Dust mites are microscopic bugs living in furniture and cushiony items, such as mattresses, pillows, etc.
- Mold- symptoms of allergy to mold include sneezing, breathing difficulty, coughing, and itchy skin.
- Cigarette smoke- a lot of people are allergic to cigarette smoke.
- Pet dander- pet saliva and pet dander are common allergens too. If you have this allergy, you can suffer symptoms such as hives, coughing, itching, and sneezing.
Treatment Options
A doctor prescribes the appropriate treatment option depending on what element you are allergic to. Some medicines helpful for treating allergies include:
- Antihistamines
- Decongestants
- Creams and lotion for protection against allergens
- Steroids
- Immunotherapy or desensitization
Immunotherapy
This form of treatment is for people with allergies who cannot find relief via medication or avoiding contact with allergens. In immunotherapy, you receive occasional doses of the allergen in the form of tablets, drops, or injections over the years. This treatment method aims to make your body adjust to the allergen bit by bit so that it stops reacting so severely to it over time.
Many confuse this option as a permanent cure, but that is not what it is. It is essential to understand that immunotherapy may not cure the allergy altogether, but it can surely make it milder and less severe for you. This also means that you can reduce the dosage of your anti-allergy medicines.
