Pollen Allergies
Allergies often cause symptoms that are uncomfortable and annoying. An allergy to pollen is one of the most common forms of allergic reactions. When exposed to pollen, a sensitive person’s immune system goes into overdrive producing large amounts of histamines. These histamines are a natural part of the body’s defense system and are released to defend the body against infection.
Unfortunately, pollen triggers the defense system and causes all kinds of trouble for allergy sufferers.
Pollen that is spread into the air to fertilize plants is the leading cause of upper respiratory allergy symptoms in humans. The pollen release is a natural occurrence that is most often associated with certain seasons of the year.
Spring and summer pollen allergies, sometimes called hay fever, can be associated with many symptoms. Itchy, watery eyes and a runny nose are two of the common complaints of allergy sufferers in the pollen season. Other symptoms include fatigue, irritability, itchy throat, sneezing and swelling of the nasal passages. Most of these symptoms are mild but in some cases can trigger asthma. In people who have asthma, tree and plant pollen can worsen the condition greatly.
Pollen allergies affect a large portion of the human population. To avoid exposure to pollen many people try to spend part of the season indoors. This method is effective if you are careful to avoid opening the doors and windows of the home. Running the air conditioner is a convenient way to avoid exposure to pollen since air conditioning systems generally filter the air well.
To avoid exposure to pollen it is also an excellent idea to keep outdoor chores like raking or mowing the lawn down to a minimum. Any activity that stirs the leaves and grass will lead to the release of even more pollen into the air.
Wearing a mask while mowing is recommended when you cannot avoid those outdoor jobs. Hiring someone to mow the lawn and weed the garden is another good idea during pollen season. Limiting your exposure will definitely help to ease some of the symptoms of the allergy.
Pollen is hard to avoid if you have to spend time outside. Beach areas and northern climates are least likely to have large pollen counts during the spring and summer months, so these areas are great for allergy sufferers who want a restful vacation.
There are many over-the-counter medications that are recommended to reduce the severity of pollen allergy symptoms, but it is always best to check with your physician before taking any medication. Some of these drugs can cause side effects that are unpleasant and can also interfere with prescribed medications. Most people who suffer from pollen allergies find relief by avoiding contact with pollen as much as possible.
Pollen Allergy Tips and Treatments
