Seasonal allergies are no small matter. With spring approaching, we face a significant challenge. According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, approximately 60 million people in the US suffer from seasonal allergies. However, most of us still have many misconceptions about seasonal allergies, even if we think we know enough about them. This article will address some common misconceptions and things you might not know about seasonal allergies. Knowing more will help us be better prepared for the challenges ahead.
Allergies can occur at any age:
Many people believe that seasonal allergies only affect children and that if you don't have them as a child, you won't develop them later in life. While seasonal allergies are more common in childhood, they can occur at any age.
Allergies can be genetically determined:
If one or both of your parents have allergies, there's a higher chance you'll develop them too. Symptoms may appear at a certain age, but what triggers them and when this might happen is not yet fully understood.
What you are allergic to can change:
Our lives are full of allergens. Seasonal allergies are typically triggered by outdoor allergens like pollen, but can also be triggered by indoor allergens such as pet dander or dust mites. Most importantly, your allergy triggers can change over time. This change can occur at any stage of life. Furthermore, even if you receive allergy shots and develop immunity, you may still develop an allergy to something you weren't previously allergic to.
Climate change can worsen allergies:
As temperatures rise, plants produce more pollen over longer periods, leading to more severe allergy symptoms. Prolonged exposure to higher pollen levels can also make people who have never previously developed allergies more likely to experience them. Therefore, don't be surprised if you suddenly develop allergy symptoms one day.
A new environment will not cure allergies:
Many people with allergy problems consider moving to a new place where the things they're allergic to aren't present. They might feel better for a year or two. But it won't be long before they develop new allergies to whatever is in the new environment. That's because an allergy is a tendency of your immune system. It will show allergy symptoms as long as there are allergens, regardless of what they are. It will usually react to the allergen you're most exposed to. And since there's no place in the world without allergens, your immune system will always react to something.
Allergies can affect your mental health:
Allergies can cause significant physical discomfort and drain your energy. Symptoms like a runny nose can also prevent you from getting enough rest. Physical stress and lack of sleep can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health problems.
Allergies can be mistaken for other illnesses:
Sneezing, a runny nose, and itchy eyes are common allergy symptoms, but some people also experience fatigue, headaches, or even digestive problems. Therefore, allergy symptoms can sometimes be mistaken for other illnesses. It's important to see a doctor to determine the cause of your symptoms.
Allergies can be life-threatening:
In some cases, allergies can trigger a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening. Seasonal allergies can also trigger asthma attacks. Approximately 80 percent of children with asthma also have some form of allergy and tend to experience attacks during allergy season. Furthermore, seasonal allergies can lead to a range of breathing problems, particularly in people with chronic respiratory conditions such as COPD. If you experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing or swelling in the face or throat, seek immediate medical attention.
There are several ways to reduce allergy symptoms:
There are various approaches to managing allergies. You can either take preventative measures by reducing exposure through the use of air purifiers, wearing masks outdoors, and frequent handwashing. Or you can try long-term allergy control methods such as allergy shots or immunotherapy. If you suffer from severe breathing difficulties, oxygen therapy with an oxygen concentrator is a good option to improve your condition by providing supplemental oxygen.