Common Environmental Allergy Symptoms

Environmental allergies are caused by allergens in the environment, such as pollen, mold, dust mites, and pet dander. These allergens can trigger a range of symptoms, which may vary from mild to severe. Common symptoms include:

• Sneezing: Frequent sneezing, especially after exposure to allergens like pollen or dust.
• Runny or Stuffy Nose: Nasal congestion or a clear, watery nasal discharge.
• Itchy or Watery Eyes: Redness, itching, and tearing of the eyes, often associated with pollen allergies.
• Coughing: Persistent coughing, especially at night or in the morning.
• Wheezing or Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing or a wheezing sound when exhaling, common in people with asthma triggered by allergens.
• Skin Rash: Hives or rashes that occur when exposed to certain allergens, such as mold or pet dander.

Common Environmental Allergy Triggers

Environmental allergens can be divided into indoor and outdoor triggers. Both types can cause reactions year-round or seasonally, depending on the specific allergen.

Indoor Allergy Triggers

Indoor allergens are typically present throughout the year and can accumulate in your living spaces. Common indoor allergens include:

• Dust Mites: Tiny organisms that thrive in warm, humid environments and are found in bedding, upholstery, and carpets.
• Pet Dander: Proteins found in pet saliva, urine, and dander (shed skin cells), which can trigger reactions in sensitive individuals.
• Mold: Mold spores can grow in damp areas of the home, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements, and can be a potent allergen.
• Cockroach Droppings: The waste products of cockroaches can cause allergic reactions in some individuals.

Outdoor Allergy Triggers

Outdoor allergens are more seasonal, although some can be present throughout the year. Common outdoor allergens include:

• Pollen: A major outdoor allergen that is produced by trees, grasses, and weeds. Pollen counts are highest during specific seasons:
• Spring: Tree pollen (e.g., oak, birch, maple, cedar) is common in spring.
• Summer: Grass pollen (e.g., Bermuda grass, Timothy grass) peaks in the summer.
• Fall: Ragweed pollen and weed pollen are more prevalent in the fall months.
• Air Pollution: Pollutants like ozone, vehicle exhaust, and industrial emissions can exacerbate allergies, especially in urban areas.
• Outdoor Molds: Mold spores from fallen leaves, grass, and other organic material can trigger reactions, especially during wet or humid weather.

Seasonal Allergy Variations

Environmental allergies can be more severe during certain seasons, primarily due to the increase in certain allergens like pollen and mold. Here’s how allergies can vary by season:

Spring

Spring is a time when tree pollen levels are high. Common trees that produce allergenic pollen include:

• Oak
• Birch
• Maple
• Cedar

People with allergies to tree pollen may experience symptoms such as sneezing, itchy eyes, and nasal congestion.

Summer

During the summer months, grass pollen levels are the highest. Common grasses that release pollen include:

• Bermuda Grass
• Timothy Grass
• Ryegrass

Summer allergy sufferers often experience sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes as a result of grass pollen exposure.

Fall

Fall is associated with an increase in weed pollen, especially ragweed. Ragweed pollen can travel for hundreds of miles, affecting people even if they don’t have ragweed plants nearby. Mold spores from fallen leaves also increase during this season.

Fall allergies are characterized by symptoms such as nasal congestion, sneezing, and itchy eyes.

Winter

While outdoor allergens decrease during the winter months, indoor allergens like dust mites, pet dander, and mold can still cause reactions. The dry air and indoor heating can worsen symptoms for those with allergies.