| The Truth about summer allergies |
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Ahh, summer. Time to run through fields of flowers, picnic in the park, toss the ball with your dog. If you love the outdoors, it’s nature at its best; but if you have summer allergies, it can seem like nature at it’s worst.
What causes allergies?
There are three main sources of summer allergies: grass pollen, mold spores and weed pollen. In the summertime, mold spores are the leading cause of outdoor airborne allergies, largely due to the fact that you’re in contact with more of the spores in cut grass, compost piles, soil, debris, fallen leaves, woods and other moist surfaces.
How can you prevent symptoms from occurring?
Outdoors: One simple – albeit frustrating – option is to schedule your outdoor activities for later in the day when pollen levels are lower. You can also check your local allergy forecast before planning outdoor activities, as allergy seasons vary greatly – from mild to severe. Driving with your windows closed can help, as can showering after spending time outside – which can wash away pollen that can accumulate on hair and skin. If possible, stay indoors when it’s windy or if the humidity is high, as dust and pollen are more likely to be in the air.
Indoors: To prevent allergies in your home, dust surfaces and wash your sheets and blankets regularly to control dust mites. You’ll also want to vacuum often (use a face mask and leave for a couple hours afterward if you can) using an air filter. Keep pollen at bay by closing doors and windows. Use an air filter in your home and clean it regularly. To reduce mold spores, fix any leaks inside your home immediately, clean moldy surfaces and limit your number of houseplants – as they can carry both pollen and mold.
How can a doctor treat allergies?
While over-the-counter medicines work for some people, severe allergies often require prescription treatments. Your doctor can prescribe anti-inflammatory medications, antihistamines, or allergy shots – called “immunotherapy.” Talk to your doctor about what level of treatment is right for yo.
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