Environmental allergies cause your immune system to react to seemingly harmless substances. Symptoms often include congestion, sneezing, itchy nose and eyes, red or watery eyes, fatigue and headache. When you have environmental allergies, it can sometimes be hard to identify the substance triggering your symptoms. Let’s take a look at a few common triggers, where to find them and how to minimize your exposure.
Pollen
Probably the most well-known environmental allergen, pollen is a powdery substance created by certain plants during the reproduction process. It can come from trees, grass, flowers and weeds. Most pollen is released during the spring, summer and fall. You are most likely to be exposed to pollen outside, though it can also flow into your home through open windows or doors.
To help minimize your pollen exposure, close your windows and doors during allergy season, shower upon returning home and stay out of green spaces like Alexander Park during peak pollen hours. You can use The Weather Channel to track pollen levels in your area.
Dust Mites
Dust mites are small pests that feed on dead human skin cells. They thrive in warm, humid settings. Although dust mites are too small for us to see, roughly four out of five homes in the U.S. have dust mites in at least one bed. They can also live in upholstered furniture, carpets, curtains and other places with large amounts of accumulated dust.
Because dust mites stay hydrated by absorbing moisture from the air, controlling the humidity in your home is essential in minimizing their presence. Use a dehumidifier in your home and run an exhaust fan after showering or cooking in the bathroom and kitchen.
Cleaning is another excellent way to minimize dust mite exposure. Sweep, vacuum and mop your home at least once a week and regularly wipe down any hard surfaces. Wash your bedding once a week and aim to replace your mattress about every seven to eight years.
Mold
Mold is a type of fungus that grows inside and outside the home. When mold releases spores, your body may react to them with allergy symptoms. Mold inside the home usually grows in damp places like the kitchen, bathroom and basement. To help prevent growth, make sure your house has good ventilation and run dehumidifiers and exhaust fans to keep humidity levels below 50%. If mold does grow, clean it immediately with an appropriate household cleaner. Wear a face mask if you’re very sensitive to mold or strong cleaners.
Pet Dander
Pet dander is a collection of tiny proteins from flecks of skin on your pets. Your cats or dogs may shed it regularly throughout your home. To help minimize buildup, vacuum and mop surfaces regularly and bathe your animal at least once a week.
To find out more about the specific allergens triggering your symptoms, contact ENT of Georgia North today for an allergy test and treatment consultation.
