Getting serious about seasonal allergies
By Gabbi Di Marino, content manager and fellow allergy sufferer
When the icy grip of winter finally begins to let up, a feeling of relief begins to embrace you as if to say, “pack up your sweaters and get out your shorts - summer’s on its way!” But that relief can quickly turn to dread for those who suffer from seasonal allergies. And if you or a loved one have this day-ruining condition, then you know exactly what we’re talking about. But let’s just assume that you don’t, or rather, that there’s a lot you don’t know about your condition. This post is going to give you the 411 on everything seasonal allergy related, so buckle up, guys - we’re here to break down some important, must-know facts about seasonal allergies.
The wide-spread effect of seasonal allergies
While known by many different names ( Allergic Rhinitis, AR, hay fever, etc ), there’s one thing we can all agree on: seasonal allergies are the worst. As the 6th most common chronic condition in the U.S., seasonal allergies affect over 50+ million people in the U.S. alone! So, it’s no small problem. The reach of this condition is vast, affecting people of all ages and environments, and with climate change steadily increasing, seasonal allergies are only getting more intense. But what even are seasonal allergies, anyways? And what causes them?
Breaking down seasonal allergies
Well, allergies are a reaction your body has to an outside substance. For seasonal allergies, this most commonly refers to pollen - a microscopic substance that comes from trees, weeds, and grasses. There’s many different kinds of pollen too, each of which floats through the air during different seasons, so it’s not just spring and summer you have to worry about. Depending on where you live, you might even encounter this pesky allergic agent year round! And when pollen enters your nose, your body will release histamines. Think of histamines as your own personal security guard for your nose, there to kick out any unwanted trouble.
However, histamines are also what causes the nagging symptoms that seasonal allergies are infamous for, such as:
Sneezing
Runny or stuffy nose
Itchy eyes, nose, mouth, or throat
And these day-ruining symptoms aren’t the only things you have to worry about. In fact, it’s been proven that seasonal allergies can have a direct negative impact on your overall quality of life. This can manifest as decreased productivity at work or school, excessive daytime somnolence, irritability, sleep disorders, fatigue, and even depression. 52% of those in the workforce who suffer from seasonal allergies reported either having to call off work entirely or that their performance was greatly impacted. So, this problem spans far beyond simple discomfort and can even begin to control the lives of those it affects!
Treating seasonal allergies
The most common form of treatment is antihistamines: drugs used to block the release of histamines and inhibit symptoms. 81% of hay fever sufferers use antihistamines to combat their allergies, but just how successful is this method of treatment?
Well, while over the counter antihistamines may work for some, as much as 66% of those that use these medications are unsatisfied with their treatment. And for others, OTC allergy meds aren’t recommended for them because of pre-existing conditions or because of the work they do, such as operating heavy machinery.
When OTC allergy meds are not recommend:
Pregnancy or breastfeeding
High-blood pressure
Heart Disease
Glaucoma
Liver disease
Thyroid Conditions
Liver Disease
Taking all this information in may be a lot, but it’s important to understand just how burdensome seasonal allergies can be. No one should be controlled by their hay fever, and yet, many sufferers are forced to cancel their long-awaited camping trips and getaway weekends to stay in bed with stuffy noses and itchy throats, instead of living their lives to the fullest.