It’s a common misconception that allergy season ends with April showers or May flowers. Allergy season can extend well into the summer, and for some it is year-round! In reality, the length of allergy season depends on what you’re allergic to. Below we review some of the main summer allergens and how to find relief.
Summer Allergens
While trees are done pollenating around late spring, grass and weed pollen is the major culprit behind summer allergies.
Grass Pollen
Top grass allergens include:
- Bermuda.
- Blue grass.
- Orchard.
- Red top.
- Sweet vernal.
- Timothy.
Weed Pollen
Top weed allergens include:
- Ragweed.
- Cockleweed.
- Pigweed.
- Russian thistle.
- Sagebrush.
- Tumbleweed.
One of the most common summer allergens is ragweed. Even if it doesn’t grow in your area, the wind can carry it, as well as other types of pollen, hundreds of miles.
Outdoor Mold
Another common culprit of summertime allergies is mold, which can grow in fallen leaves, compost piles and grass clippings.
Insect Stings
An estimated two million Americans are allergic to stings from bees, wasps, yellow jackets, hornets, and other insects. Most insect bites cause mild symptoms like swelling and itching, but if you have difficulty breathing or feel nauseous/dizzy, seek immediate medical attention.
Dust Mites
Dust mites are microscopic insects that live in beds, fabrics, carpets and drapes and thrive in warm, humid temperatures. The enzymes in their waste can trigger allergy symptoms for many. While they are a year-round allergen, they peak in the summer.
Smog
Summer is the worst time for people who are reactive to smog. Smog is created in the atmosphere and clouds around cities thanks to strong sunlight and calm winds.
Finding Relief from Summer Allergies
The best way to find relief from summer allergies is to reduce your exposure to allergens. The experts at Pinnacle ENT Associates recommend:
- Tracking pollen counts in your area and staying indoors with the windows closed when they are high.
- Delegating yard work to someone without allergies, or hiring a professional.
- Showering and changing clothes right away after spending time outside.
- Scheduling an appointment for an allergy test, so you know exactly what you’re allergic to.
If you’re ready to enjoy outdoor summer activities, like swimming at Lake Nockamixon, free of allergy symptoms, call the experts at Pinnacle ENT Associates today!