Allergens don’t recognize seasons. May’s flowers have got you sniffling and sneezing, but just because the month has ended, that doesn’t mean your allergies will suddenly stop. Pollen, mold, and insect stings can trigger allergies during the summer season.
The Culprits of Summer Allergies
Pollen
Pollen is the biggest culprit of allergy during the summer months. Fresh produce such as apples, melons, and celery can trigger allergy symptoms.
It’s very common for some people to mistake the symptoms as food intolerances so experts suggest seeing an allergist if your symptoms last for more than two weeks.
Weed and Grass
There are certain varieties of weeds and grass that can trigger your allergy symptoms. For the weed, this includes ragweed, sagebrush, cockle weed, and tumbleweed. For the grass, Bermuda, bluegrass, and timothy could trigger allergies.
Critters
Critters that sting are more active during the summer months. Insects and bugs like bees, fire ants, wasps, and hornets are known stingers. Their sting can trigger an allergic reaction.
The symptoms can be mild, leading to swelling around the area and itching. In some cases, it can lead to severe allergic reactions, causing your tongue to swell, dizziness, and difficulty breathing. A severe allergic reaction is an emergency situation. In such cases, you shouldn’t delay seeking medical help.
Mold
There are tiny things that love the warm air. Molds, for instance, thrive in damp areas like your bathroom and could release spores in the air that can set off an allergic reaction.
There are also these very tiny dust mites that can have residue that can get into the air. This can cause sneezing, runny nose, and wheezing.
Symptoms to Watch Out For
You are most likely having an allergic reaction if you are having runny nose, watery eyes, coughing, sneezing, and itchy eyes and nose. Experts also recommend seeing an allergist as soon as you can if you notice dark circles under your eyes, breathing through your mouth, and a nasal crease.
An allergist can assess your condition, determine your specific triggers, and provide you with the most appropriate treatment.
Greater Knoxville ENT has specialists who can do that. To request an appointment, you may call us at (865) 244-4396.
With the COVID-19 virus outbreak, we are also offering telemedicine for appropriate new and current patients.