For many in North Texas, hay fever is a recurring health issue that can significantly affect daily life. Without effective seasonal allergy care, symptoms like sneezing, itching and congestion can substantially diminish productivity and quality of life. Thankfully, it’s quite possible to manage these allergies and reduce their impact. The process starts with understanding the underlying causes of hay fever.
What Are the Common Causes of Hay Fever?
Hay fever is one of the most prevalent allergies that affect both adults and children. However, the exact triggers causing allergy symptoms vary from person to person.
1. Pollen
Pollen is the substance most commonly associated with hay fever and is spread far and wide by the wind. In fact, on windy days pollen can travel a considerable distance. Grass pollen is prevalent from late spring to summer and tree pollen levels peak during spring. Weed pollen is most impactful from late summer into fall.
2. Dust Mites
Dust mites can cause hay fever symptoms throughout the year but are most common in warm, humid conditions. These tiny organisms are often found in carpets, curtains and bedding.
3. Animal Dander
Cats, dogs and other pets shed tiny flakes of skin (called dander) around the home. This dander becomes airborne and settles on clothing and other surfaces, potentially triggering hay fever symptoms upon exposure.
4. Mold Spores
Mold thrives in damp areas both indoors and out. When mold spores become airborne they can trigger hay fever symptoms by irritating the nasal passages.
Why Do Allergens Cause Hay Fever Symptoms?
After exposure to one of these allergens, the immune system mistakenly perceives it as a threat and releases allergen-specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies. These antibodies attach to mast cells, and upon subsequent exposure to the allergen, trigger the release of chemicals including histamine. Histamine causes swelling and inflammation in various parts of the body, leading to symptoms such as sneezing, a runny nose, itchy eyes and more.
Allergy testing is important to identify which of the allergens is causing hay fever. It’s also worth exploring just why exposure to certain substances causes the immune system to react.
What Factors Influence Hay Fever Development?
In addition to the primary causes of hay fever, various factors contribute to the development of allergies. Immune system issues, a family history of allergies, early exposure to allergens and experiencing existing allergies can all increase the likelihood of developing hay fever.
The severity of allergic reactions will vary considerably between patients, ranging from mild itching or nasal congestion to a severe health risk. If you or your child is suffering a lower quality of life due to hay fever, allergy treatments and immunotherapy solutions can offer relief.
Get Treatment for Hay Fever in McKinney/Prosper or Southlake Today
If you’re experiencing uncomfortable hay fever symptoms, TexasAllergyMD is here to help. We provide innovative testing and treatment services at our allergy treatment centers in McKinney/Prosper and Southlake. Call (469) 375-1525 or request an appointment today.
