Summer presents its own allergies such as mold, grass pollen, sunscreen, and seasonal fruits. Fortunately, with every allergen, the Langford Allergy team can help you combat the side effects and help you enjoy a Middle Georgia summer. Consider the details of these four summer allergies:
Mold Spores
Outdoor mold is often at its highest during the summer and fall months. Mold allergies amp up in the fall when mold settles on fallen leaves, cut grass, and dead logs. When mold spores settle in your nostrils, you may experience symptoms such as an itchy, runny nose or congestion. But, if the spores travel to your lungs, asthma symptoms may occur.
Grass Pollen
Georgia is notorious for pollen counts in the thousands during the spring season. But, just because summer arrives doesn’t mean the pollen disappears. Grass can also produce pollen – ragweed is the most common frustration among allergy sufferers. Fortunately, there are tips that can help you avoid grass pollen from upsetting your sinuses. Consider the following: keep your lawn cut short, do yard work after a rainfall, avoid drying clothes on a clothes line, and seek medication relief by making an appointment with a Langford Allergy doctor.
Sunscreen
The Georgia sun is hot, and sunscreen is a staple item to prevent cancerous diseases such as melanoma. Some people have an allergic reaction to sunscreen due to its chemicals. Other people develop a rash once the sunscreen and the sun’s ultraviolet rays collide. Before foregoing sunscreen, allow one of our doctors to perform an allergy test. Through this test, they will determine exactly what chemical is causing this negative reaction and help you find a safe sunscreen to use that will not cause allergic contact dermatitis.
Seasonal Fruits
Fruits such as watermelon, peaches, and berries are common in the summertime. But, for some people, these fruits can cause an allergic reaction. This reaction is known as oral allergy syndrome (OAS). If you are experiencing OAS, your mouth and throat may be itchy or have a burning sensation. If this occurs, your body is telling you that it does not agree with the food you just ate. If serious, anaphylaxis may occur which requires an epinephrine injector and medical help.