The return of summer brings with it the return of warmer temperatures and outdoor activities.  Thanks to pollen and grass, summer also means sneezing and sniffling for millions of Americans. In fact, allergies are one of the most common chronic conditions worldwide. Of course, this season of allergies does not affect everyone. What causes some people to suffer from summer allergies? Here are potential causes and your options.

Summer Sneezes

The pollen released by grass is the main cause of seasonal summer allergies. The most common allergic reaction to pollen is often referred to as hay fever. The type of pollen released into the air varies depending upon the variety of tree or plant that releases it.  

Pollen is a fine powder that easily disperses through the air and can be carried by the wind for miles. It is easily inhaled through the mouth or nose, triggering allergic reactions in those who are susceptible to it. Grass allergies are at their peak during early summer. 

Summer Allergy Symptoms

When exposed to pollen, summer allergy symptoms include sneezing, coughing, a runny nose, watery eyes, and a headache. Symptoms may also appear in the ears, on the skin, or in the lining of the stomach. This response is triggered by the body itself, trying to protect you from the foreign substance, namely the pollen you just inhaled. Simply put, your body releases a chemical substance known as histamines into your bloodstream to fight back against the invading pollen. 

Unfortunately, there is no known cure to summer allergies, but the use of certain medications, coupled with an awareness of what you are allergic to, can go a long way in helping to deal with allergies.  

Perhaps the best way to deal with seasonal allergies is to become aware of what substances trigger your allergic reactions.  Allergy testing, which will determine which trees or plants produce the pollens that trigger your body’s immune response, is always a good idea.

The National Allergy Bureau has an online resource with specific pollen counts for certain grasses, mold spores, and weeds around the United States. Knowing the pollen counts around southern California can help make your allergy medicine more effective. Antihistamines typically work best when taken preemptively.

Come to UrgentMED for Summer Allergy Relief

At UrgentMED, our highly skilled and compassionate staff can help you with non-life threatening allergies.  In fact, we pride ourselves on our convenience, efficiency, and cost. With 17 convenient walk-in urgent care clinics throughout Southern California, we offer fast, professional service without a long wait. We offer weekday, weeknight, and weekend hours to serve you when you need it most. If you suffer from summer allergies, we can assist you and treat your symptoms. Find the location nearest to you today.