As anyone with hay fever will know, spring and summer can be challenging seasons in North Texas. For many people these months are a period of discomfort and frustration, as managing seasonal allergies becomes a top priority. The surge in airborne allergens at this time typically triggers a range of symptoms, from mild congestion to severe breathing issues. While these seasonal challenges can certainly be irritating, understanding the causes and treatment to help can help you feel good and stay healthy.
Common Seasonal Allergies and Their Peak Times
A seasonal allergy is one that appears when high concentrations of airborne substances arrive during specific times of the year. Also called allergic rhinitis, this type of allergy will vary depending on season of the year and location of the allergic person. The following triggers are the most common causes of seasonal allergies.
1. Tree Pollen
Tree pollen problems typically begin in late winter, though symptoms peak in the springtime. As with all seasonal allergy triggers, the timing and severity depends on climate, weather patterns and other factors. In North Texas, pollen from oak, cedar and elm trees is responsible for runny noses, itchy eyes, sneezing, coughing, postnasal drip and other symptoms.
2. Grass Pollen
Grass pollen becomes an issue starting in late spring and can continue throughout the summer, peaking in May and June. While allergy testing is important to identify the precise allergen at work, Bermuda grass is the most common grass pollen found in North Texas. Be cautious on hot and humid days, as grass pollen levels will usually increase.
3. Weed Pollen
While fall brings some relief from tree and grass pollen, it also sees weed pollen reaching its peak. Ragweed pollen is a prevalent allergen in North Texas and causes significant discomfort for many seasonal allergy sufferers. This pollen reaches peak levels during dry, windy days.
4. Mold Spores
While mold spores are present throughout the year, they are most common in late summer and fall. This allergen thrives in damp places, and both indoor and outdoor molds trigger symptoms. Regular cleaning and dehumidifiers can help reduce mold exposure in your home, and for outside, keeping gutters clean and avoiding damp areas (such as piles of leaves) will minimize mold exposure.
How to Manage Seasonal Allergies
Many people with mild allergies use simple techniques to manage symptoms. From staying indoors when pollen levels are high to installing air purifiers, various methods can help reduce the impact of an allergy. However, those with moderate to severe reactions might require professional allergy treatments and immunotherapy solutions. Allergy shots and allergy drops (SLIT) are the leading options, providing lasting allergy relief by desensitizing the immune system to the problem allergen.
Visit Us for Seasonal Allergy Treatment in North Texas
TexasAllergyMD offers testing and treatment for the common seasonal allergies that affect adults and children. Get relief from symptoms at our allergy treatment centers in McKinney/Prosper and Southlake. Call (469) 375-1525 or request an appointment today.
