Allergies can be triggered all year long, but the height of the allergy season in New England is the fall, when pollen and mold are at an all-year high. Now that fall is upon us, there are several ways that sufferers can limit their symptoms and enjoy a healthy, active season.
Tips for Staying Healthy
The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (AAAAI) offers tips on avoiding seasonal allergy triggers this fall, including letting someone else do the raking and mowing and staying indoors when the neighbors are performing these tasks; keeping composts, leaves and yard clippings, which breed mold, away from the house; closing your windows and using air conditioners; and not hanging bedding or clothing out to dry because they can collect pollen and mold.
To see what kind of allergies you have, check out the AAAAI’s virtual allergist. You start by clicking on the part of the body that is being affected. I tested it by clicking on lungs, then wheezing. It brought up several options that could cause wheezing, including food allergies, anaphylaxis – which is a life-threatening allergic reaction – and bee stings.
Monitoring Daily Pollen Counts
The National Allergy Bureau monitors daily pollen counts nationwide, including trees, weeds, grass and mold. You can check these counts online. Choose your location using their pull-down menu. However, information is not available for all communities. If your community is not available, try inputting the largest metropolitan area near you. For example, at the time of this writing, in Pittsburgh, Penn., the pollen count for weeds (ragweed) was high, while mold was moderate. If you are allergic to ragweed and mold and you live in the Pittsburgh area, this is a good day to stay indoors.
If you get allergy shots or see your allergist regularly, you may be able to check your local pollen count there. My doctor keeps specimens on the roof of the local hospital, checks them several times a week and hangs a report in the lobby of her office for her patients.
The Connection Between Allergies and Asthma
According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), the same allergens that cause an allergic reaction can also trigger an asthma attack. These include pollen, dust mites, mold, pet dander, perfumes, and smoke, from cigarettes, fireplaces, even grills.
Asthma is an inherited disease, according to the AAFA, and people who have asthma could very likely also have inherited allergies.
Medically Treating Allergy Symptoms
There are several over-the-counter and prescriptive treatments for allergies, including antihistamines, decongestants and adrenalin for opening up the airways. However, before you start taking pills, applying nasal sprays and using inhalers or other forms of allergy and asthma medicines on your own, the best thing you can do for your symptoms is consult your doctor. Everyone’s allergens and allergic reactions are different and your doctor can customize a treatment plan specifically for you.
If you don’t currently have an allergist, check the AAAAI’s directory for doctors near you. Also, the AAFA has an “Ask the Allergist” section on its website, while the AAAAI has a variety of resources (under the Patients & Consumers section).
Some allergies, such as those to nuts, shellfish and bee stings, can be life threatening. If you feel you are suffering from allergies, don’t wait to get treatment. Consult a physician. With the proper treatment, you or your loved ones with allergies can live a happy, active life.
Lynn Russo Whylly - I am a professional business writer and editor with experience covering a wide variety of business issues, including marketing, ...
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