Seasonal Allergies

These symptoms typically reach their peak during periods of plant pollination. However, the environs of San Antonio provide an ideal habitat for an array of distinct flora that follows different pollination schedules throughout the year, resulting in a near-constant deluge of allergic reactions.

Seasonal allergies, also called seasonal allergic rhinitis or hay fever, manifest with the common symptoms of nasal discharge, congestion, and sneezing. Allergic reactions arise from exposure to different environmental factors prevalent during specific seasons, which trigger a person’s immune system response.

These factors typically encompass grass, weeds, and specific tree species pollen. Fortunately, those affected by allergies can avail themselves of particular treatments to alleviate the unpleasant symptoms.
ntonio, we specialize in providing individualized medical care to both adults and children suffering from allergies.

Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies

Seasonal allergy symptoms exhibit a broad spectrum of severity, ranging from mild to severe, and can endure for weeks to months. 

In addition to the potential of triggering asthma symptoms, seasonal allergies can lead to complications such as increased susceptibility to sinus and ear infections. Accurately discerning whether one’s symptoms result from seasonal allergies or a distinct ailment can pose a challenge. 

Typical symptoms of seasonal allergies encompass

• Runny nose, nasal congestion, postnasal drip (mucus running down the back of the throat), or sneezing
• Itchy, watery, red, or swollen eyes
• Pain in the face or headaches
• Ear fullness, pain, or popping
• Cough
• Wheezing or shortness of breath

Causes of Seasonal Allergies

These allergens can be propagated by windy and arid conditions, transporting them over considerable distances. It is noteworthy that allergic reactions can manifest without proliferating trees or grasses in one’s immediate surroundings.

The region of Central Texas has earned the moniker of the “Allergy Capital of the World,” owing to the persistent and bothersome symptoms experienced by its inhabitants across the different seasons.

It is primarily ascribed to the abundance of pollinating plants that increase in the region, causing discomfort and inconvenience for many Texas residents for extended periods.

Although winter typically relieves allergies in many regions of the country, the state of Texas is unique in its abundance of cedar trees.

As a result, cedar allergies are prevalent throughout the winter months, leading to the coining of the term “cedar fever” to describe the cold-like symptoms triggered by cedar pollen. In spring, oak trees, cottonwood, elm, ash, and pecan trees contribute to allergic symptoms, while grass pollen peaks during the summer, with Bahia, Bermuda, and Timothy grasses being common causes in central Texas.

As fall arrives, weed pollen becomes a prevalent trigger of allergic symptoms. Ragweed causes severe reactions due to the abundance of pollen these plants produce.

Seasonally Related Triggers

Other triggers besides pollen and mold can further exacerbate San Antonio’s seasonal allergies. The copious amounts of pollen from freely-growing plants can also catalyze allergic reactions.

• Smoke from barbecues or wildfires
• Air pollution
• Perfumes and scented products
• Pet dander
• Dust mites
• Certain foods

Diagnosis and Treatment of Seasonal Allergies

Our seasoned specialist possesses profound expertise in diagnosing and treating allergies, commencing treatment by identifying the source. Upon visiting our facility, the physician will conduct a comprehensive evaluation, considering your medical history and clinical symptoms.

The acquired data will aid in identifying suitable testing methods, such as allergy skin or blood tests, to accurately pinpoint the cause of your seasonal allergies.

Multiple strategies are available to effectively control seasonal allergies within the San Antonio region.

Check the pollen count

It is advisable to monitor the current pollen count in your vicinity, which is readily accessible through the weather section of various news websites or applications.

If the count is high, limit outdoor activities, especially in the mornings and evenings when pollen concentrations are highest.

Keep your home clean

A pristine and moisture-free living space is essential for effectively reducing the adverse effects of indoor allergens, such as dust mites and mold. 

Employing a filter vacuum to extract allergens from carpets and furnishings, as well as implementing the use of a dehumidifier to decrease moisture content in the air, are recommended strategies. 

These measures aid in preserving a sterile and healthy atmosphere within the home.

Use medications

Non-prescription antihistamines and decongestants are effective in mitigating allergic reactions. 

However, in cases of heightened severity, a qualified physician should prescribe a nasal steroid spray or immunotherapy (allergy shots) to desensitize the immune system.

Avoid triggers

Recognising and circumventing allergen triggers to the maximum extent feasible is imperative. 

People sensitive to tree pollen should avoid arboreal settings or wear masks during outdoor activities.

Consider natural remedies

Specific individuals have reported experiencing a reduction in their allergy-related symptoms through the utilisation of natural remedies, including saline nasal rinses or herbal supplements. 

Despite the restricted scientific research on this topic, it is worth considering these alternative treatments as a potential solution.

Seasonal Allergy Testing

Our website provides further information about the assessment procedure and skin testing techniques.

Seasonal Allergy Treatment

This plan will likely entail modifications to your lifestyle to avoid triggering allergens, prescription medications aimed at controlling allergic reactions, and long-term allergy treatments that will diminish the frequency and intensity of your symptoms. Such treatment options may include immunotherapy alternatives such as subcutaneous immunotherapy (allergy shot therapy) or sublingual immunotherapy (allergy drop therapy).

Individuals who opt for either of the therapeutic pathways will receive a customized remedy that can be administered either as sublingual drops (allergy drops) or as subcutaneous injections (allergy shots).

If allergy shots are preferred, physicians will present patients with a choice between the cluster or traditional immunotherapy. Immunotherapy for allergies effectively diminishes the immune system’s reactivity to allergens and mitigates symptoms for an extended duration.

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