Patient information about Seasonal Allergies

1. Seasonal Allergies
Pollen and Mold Allergies
Source:
http://www.niaid.nih.gov/topics/allergicdiseases/understanding/pollenallergy
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2. Pollen & Mold Allergies
“Seasonal allergic rhinitis” is the medical
term for pollen and mold allergies.
This is simply an allergy to pollen and mold that
makes your nose run during certain seasons.
Pollen allergy (also called “hay fever”) and mold
allergy are both very common.
Seasonal
Allergies
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3. About Pollen
Most of the pollen that causes allergic
reactions is from trees, weeds, and grasses.
Although some people may think they are
allergic to colorful or scented flowers like roses,
it’s not usually the case.
Trees, grass, and weeds often make make
small, light, and dry pollen grains that are made
to be carried by wind. Pollen counts tend to be
the highest early in the morning on warm, dry,
breezy days and the lowest during chilly, wet
periods.
Seasonal
Allergies
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4. About Mold
Mold grows outdoors in many environments.
Mold produces spores (their "seeds”) which are
easily spread by the wind. Some spores spread in
dry weather, others spread in humid environments.
Just like pollen, these spores can cause an allergic
reaction in your body when you inhale them.
Seasonal
Allergies
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5. Symptoms
Seasonal allergy symptoms include any of
the following:
 Runny nose
 Sneezing
 Itchy eyes
 Congestion of the nose
 Red and watery eyes
Seasonal
Allergies
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6. Treatment
Avoiding seasonal allergies is nearly
impossible, but medications can help control
symptoms.
Over-the-counter medicines may help people who
have mild allergies. If these medicines don’t give
you relief or cause unwanted side effects, your
doctor may prescribe more powerful medicine:
 Prescription Antihistamines (Oral and Nasal)
 Topical nasal steroids
 Decongestants
 Cromolyn sodium (Nasal Spray)
Seasonal
Allergies
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7. Allergy Shots
Allergy Shots are the only current treatment
that can provide a long-lasting benefit against
allergies.
Allergy shots work by allowing your body to
become more tolerant (or less sensitive) of the
pollen and mold that usually cause an allergic
reaction.
Allergy shots are injected under the skin.
Health experts recommend that people who benefit
from allergy shots continue receiving them from
their doctor for 3 years.
Seasonal
Allergies
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