Allergy | Causes, diagnosis, treatment

Seasonal allergies are called like that because they occur only in certain periods of the year, when the allergen that triggers the reaction is present in the air. For example, if a person is allergic only to pollens from certain trees, or weeds, he will get the allergy manifestations only when the respective flowers are blooming and spreading their pollen in the wind. Tiny airborne particles of pollens enter the respiratory system of the sufferer and trigger the allergic response from the immune system. No pollen, no response. In fact, the allergy, the condition itself is permanent, but because the trigger is seasonal we define it like a seasonal allergy.

When Do Seasonal Allergies Occur More Frequently?

The occurrence of seasonal allergies depends on the pollination period of the plant you’re allergic to. If you are allergic to pollens of various trees which bloom in spring, you’ll experience your allergic reactions during spring. Such examples of tress are: oaks, maples, poplars, birch or cypress.

If you are allergic to weeds pollen, you may have bad luck, if you live in an area where such weds pollinate from spring to late fall.

Some trees and grass types may pollinate only in the late summer and beginning of fall. This means your allergy season is rather short.

For some countries, there are pollen count bulletins which you can study online, so you’ll know when to expect an outbreak of your allergy and prevent it by taking allergy medication for prevention.

How To Know If I Have Pollen Allergy?

Seasonal allergies are diagnosed just like any perennial allergy, either by prick tests or by RAST or ELIZA tests. Go see an allergist and you can get your allergens list in as little as 30 minutes. The main idea in allergy is to find out which substances you are sensitive to and to keep away from them as much as you can.

How To Avoid Seasonal Allergies Manifestations?

There are a few simple tricks to minimize your exposure to allergens, thus keeping you symptom-free although you suffer from seasonal allergies. If you want to know more, you can study the website of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, the patients section, where they give a lot more of useful tips.

Here are a few of such allergy prevention tips:

• Don’t get out of your house in the days with high pollen activity. If you must go out, then do it early in the morning. The afternoon is the most dangerous moment of the day, because the air is full of pollen particles.
• Keep your windows closed and use an air conditioner with pollen filters. If you feel the need for fresh air, open the windows in the early morning.
• Do not hang your clothes outdoors to get them dry after you wash them.
• When traveling by car, keep the windows closed. All cars have pollen filters, so you’ll be safe.
• Take antihistamines for about one week before the high pollen season starts, or as advised by your physician.

In case of severe seasonal allergies, the doctor may prescribe allergy shots.

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