Depending on when and where you experience nasal allergy
symptoms, you could be reacting to either outdoor
allergens, indoor
allergens, or both. Here are some common allergens of each type. If
you believe you are reacting to one or more of these common allergens, ask your
doctor to help you develop a plan to treat—and in the case of outdoor
allergens, to help prevent—most of the nasal allergy symptoms they
can cause.
Outdoor allergens
Pollens and mold spores are outdoor allergens that float in the
air and commonly trigger nasal allergy symptoms. During peak seasons, you may
experience increased symptoms—congestion, sneezing, and itchy or
runny nose—depending on where you live and the specific allergens
that are triggers for you. Weather factors such as sun, rain, and wind can also
affect the amount and types of allergens in the air and their production. For
example, outdoor allergens may be reduced on days that are rainy, cloudy, or
windless because it's harder for allergens to become airborne during these
conditions. Hot, dry, and windy weather can mean more pollen and mold are in
the air, leading to increased nasal allergy symptoms.
If outdoor allergens are triggers for you, developing strategies
to reduce your exposure is a good start. However, since these allergens are
difficult to avoid completely, your doctor may recommend you use a medication
to treat or to help prevent your nasal allergy symptoms.
Pollen Pollen is a microscopic, powdery substance used by plants for
fertilization and reproduction. Pollens are carried between plants by wind,
water, animals, bees and other insects. Nasal allergy symptoms are more often
triggered by plants with small pollens that are spread by wind currents such as
trees, grasses, and weeds. Generally, the pollens from brightly flowered plants
with larger pollen grains don't trigger nasal allergies. If your nasal allergy
symptoms are worse in some seasons than others, it may mean you're allergic to
pollen.
Molds Molds are microscopic members of the fungus family, which also
includes mushrooms. Mold spores travel through the air like pollen. However,
unlike pollen, they do not have a specific season but tend to thrive in moist
situations and are affected by wind or rain. Outdoor mold spores begin to
appear after a spring thaw and typically peak between July and October. In
regions with mild winters, outdoor molds can be found all year
long.
Indoor Allergens
Indoor, or perennial, nasal allergies are triggered by another
group of allergens, including dust mites, animal dander and urine, cockroach
droppings, and indoor molds.
If you have indoor nasal allergies, you may have symptoms year
round, and you may notice they get worse in certain situations; this can offer
clues to the specific allergen or allergens you react to. If you experience
symptoms like congestion, sneezing and an itchy or runny nose, take notice of
when and where they start and are at their worst.
If indoor allergens are triggers for you, learning ways to limit
their presence in your home or workplace is a start. However, since these
allergens are difficult to avoid completely, your doctor may recommend that you
use a medication to help manage your nasal allergy symptoms, or undergo an
immunology treatment program (allergy shots) to build your
tolerance.
Animals Animals with fur or feathers can cause nasal allergy symptoms. Although
many people think it's the hair or feathers that's causing the reactions, it is
actually saliva, proteins in animals' dander (dead skin), and urine that cause
nasal allergy problems. Symptoms of pet allergies can occur immediately or
about 8 to 12 hours after exposure. The best way to avoid animal allergens is
to avoid contact with furry or feathered animals or their
bedding.
Dust mites Dust mites are microscopic creatures that live in dust and consume
discarded flakes of human skin. Dust mite droppings are a common trigger of
nasal allergy symptoms, and are found throughout homes, especially in parts of
the home with high humidity or a concentration of human skin flakes, such as
mattresses or pillows. Regular vacuuming with a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA
filter can help reduce your contact with dust mites, as can covering mattresses
and pillows.
Molds Indoor molds thrive in dark, damp places such as basements and bathrooms.
When these molds release airborne spores, they can trigger nasal allergy
symptoms. Regular cleaning with a weak bleach solution can help eliminate mold
and minimize future growth. If you see mold on a carpet or other item in the
house, remove it promptly.
Cockroaches Several species of cockroaches live in homes and other buildings,
especially in urban areas, and especially where food and water can be found
readily. Experts believe that cockroaches' bodies, as well as their feces and
saliva, can trigger nasal allergies. Try to avoid cockroaches by keeping food
and pet foods covered and in sealed containers, cleaning well after meals, and
taking garbage and recyclables out frequently. Poison baits or boric acid may
also help, as may sealing cracks and other places where cockroaches may enter
your home.
