Allergies Are Nothing To Sneeze About

by Dr. Brett L. Lukert, DC

Spring is a beautiful season and a great time of year to be outside. For many people, however, this outdoor enjoyment can come with a price tag in the form of allergies. Allergies are an abnormal response in our body’s immune system to normally insignificant substances in the environment, called allergens.

Symptoms are usually mild and often include sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, and itchy, watery eyes. Occasionally, they can result in a severe reaction, called anaphylaxis, which can cause generalized swelling, difficult breathing and possible shock. Allergies are usually inherited and affect approximately 20-25 percent of Americans.

Just about anything can trigger an allergic reaction, but some of the most common allergens in our environment are pollen, mold, dust mites, and animal dander. Pollen is probably the most prevalent since there are multiple pollen sources, depending on the time of year. These include trees in the spring, grass in the summer and ragweed in the fall.

Molds are parasitic air-borne fungi found in areas that water accumulates, such as shower curtains, damp basements and leaf piles. They are generally worse in humid conditions.

Dust mites are microscopic organisms found in mattresses, carpets and furniture. As their name implies, they live in house dust and can be found year round.

Animal dander is actually caused by proteins in our pets’ skin, fur and saliva. Allergies to animals sometimes take years to develop and may not appear for several months following contact with these animals.

Prevention is the best way to minimize allergic reactions, and there are various measures we can take. Minimizing pollen exposure can be accomplished by staying indoors on windy days. Additionally, utilizing air conditioning during times of high pollen counts instead of leaving the windows open will help limit pollen exposure.

Mold can be reduced by frequently cleaning shower curtains (Clorox and water), keeping air circulating, and regulating the humidity at approximately 40-50 percent.

Dust mites can be effectively controlled by keeping air filters clean, minimizing dust on furniture, and using mattress covers and hypoallergenic pillows.

If getting rid of the pet dander culprit is not an option, using allergen-resistant bedding, giving frequent baths and keeping the animals off the furniture will help keep pet dander minimized.

Don’t let allergies spoil your enjoyment of springtime. Take measures to be healthy, live healthy and stay healthy!