When summer rolls around that means the end of allergy season — right? Unfortunately, that’s not the case.
Even though we tend to associate allergies with springtime, summer allergies can cause just as much discomfort. In order to survive summer allergies this year, it is crucial to be prepared before the allergens start to appear around you. Use this guide to learn more about what causes summer allergies and what you can do to make this season bearable.
When you start to experience summer allergies depend on where you live, since some areas start to warm up earlier in the year than others. Typically, summer allergies begin in early June and last until mid-September. The warmer temperatures and increased humidity of the summer months make it an ideal environment for plants that cause allergies, like grasses and weeds, to thrive.
During the summer months, there are a few common allergens that can cause your allergies to act up. These particles float in the air, making it nearly impossible to spend time outside without experiencing allergy symptoms. Let's find out more about the most common allergens present in the summer.
The most common culprit for summer allergies comes from grasses and weeds. With ideal temperatures for these plants to grow, summer can be just as difficult a season for allergy sufferers as spring. The most common types of grass and weed allergens are:
Some of these plants are only found in certain climates. Be sure to research what plants are found in your area to find out what may be causing your allergic reactions.
Although typically associated with spring allergies, tree pollen is still present in the summer. There are a few tree species that still release pollen, such as:
Another common allergen in the summer months is mold. In areas with high humidity, mold and their spores are able to grow and spread quickly, both indoors and out. Mold isn’t only prominent in the summer, though. In certain climates, mold spores may be present year round, causing perennial allergies.
There are a number of things that you can do to overcome your allergies so that you can enjoy the summer months.
When you start to experience your symptoms, you may not know how to find relief. Allergy medications often work best if used prior to exposure to allergens. Have these medications at home, before the summer allergy season strikes, to be prepared and keep them under control.
The most common way to find relief from allergy symptoms is through the use of antihistamines. These medications stop your body from releasing a chemical called histamine. It is responsible for alerting your immune system to fight back with the allergy symptoms that cause you discomfort. They come in a variety of forms such as eye drops, nasal sprays and pills or capsules. Although some require a prescription, there are over-the-counter antihistamines available as well.
Decongestants help relieve symptoms related to the nose. By reducing swelling in the blood vessels, decongestants help clear the nasal passages. Decongestants should be taken for a short period of time, or they can actually have the reverse effect and make your symptoms worse. They also come in different forms. From capsules to eye drops, and even nasal sprays, decongestants can help make it easier to breathe this summer.
Eye drops can help alleviate the itching that comes with summer allergies. They can also help minimize redness and help keep the eyes moist to reduce irritation. There are many options available, so test out some of the different eye drops on the market to find the one that works best for you.
While the options mentioned above are great symptom relief options, they don’t treat the root of the problem: an overly sensitive immune system. If you suffer from allergies, your body reacts to foreign substances that it thinks are harmful, also known as allergens. When your immune system comes into contact with the triggering allergens, it causes your allergy symptoms to flare up as a defense mechanism.
Immunotherapy is a long-term treatment option that actually changes your immune system by desensitizing it to these allergens. Over time, your symptoms will become less severe, making summer allergies much easier to manage.
Immunotherapy is commonly associated with allergy shots or drops. Allergy shots introduce small amounts of the allergen into your body through a shot given to you by your doctor. Allergy drops also contain a specific amount of allergens and are placed under the tongue, instead of an injection. While less-painful than shots, they can have a terrible taste and may cause stomach discomfort, especially in children.
But now, there is a way to get immunotherapy treatment in a pain-free way: a Transdermal Allergy Cream. The cream is applied to your forearm, where it is then absorbed into your lymphatic system, which is where your immune system operates. Direct absorption to the immune system helps make this form of treatment the most natural way to intentionally expose your body to allergens. This is also the most convenient form of immunotherapy since this cream can be applied right from home, saving you time and money on doctor’s visits.
At ShotFree Allergy, we connect you with providers who can assess and prescribe transdermal allergy cream. All you have to do is set up an online appointment to find out if you are a good fit for ShotFree Allergy to treat your seasonal or perennial allergies.
Managing your summer allergies can be a challenging task. Now that you have a better understanding of when to start preparing for your allergies and what to avoid, you can effectively manage and reduce your irritating symptoms this allergy season. Do you also suffer from allergies in the Fall, Winter or Spring seasons? Download our Allergy Survival Guide to learn everything you need to know about how to take control of your allergies.