admins Introduction
The reaction you get from your body to the environmental changes is called seasonal allergies, which is often known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis. It can occur many times in a year. At the beginning of each season, especially spring and summer, allergens like pollen and dust increase in the environment, causing a surge in allergic reactions among sensitive people.
Environmental conditions such as high temperature, humidity, pollution, and long daylight hours play a very important role in triggering and worsening these allergies among people. Both urban and rural communities are affected by these seasonal changes, making it vital to know the underlying causes of these and learn how to tackle them effectively.
Common Summer Season Diseases and Allergic Components
Heat-Related Illnesses
Heat Exhaustion
It is caused by overexposure to heat and failure to maintain proper hydration. You will start getting excessive sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, and headache. It is vital for you to change to a cool location, replenish with fluid, and rest.
Make sure to drink abundant fluids and wear loose-fitting garments to prevent it. Also, try to avoid excessive physical activity when the sun is high.
Heat Stroke
This case occurs when progression from untreated heat exhaustion happens and body fails to regulate temperature. To identify it, you may notice elevated body temperature, confusion, rapid heartbeat, and unconsciousness.
It is crucial to get immediate medical care, active cooling, and IV fluid replenishment. If you know that you are sensitive for such situations, then notice the heat symptoms and take preventive cooling measures early.
Dehydration
The main cause of dehydration is over loss of fluid through sweating, low water intake, and intense heat. If you feel thirst, dry mouth, tiredness, reduced urine output, and dizziness, then rehydrate with water and fluids containing electrolytes. Don’t avoid water intake and consume foods with high water content, and avoid caffeine and alcohol.
Skin Allergies and Infections
Prickly Heat (Heat Rash)
When obstructed sweat glands lead to skin irritation, then a person gets heat rash. The main symptoms of heat rash are red pimples, itching, and a prickly feeling. To stay safe keep the area dry and cool, dress loosely, and use calamine lotion. Always remain in air-conditioned spaces, shower after sweating, and avoid heavy creams.
Sun Allergy (Photosensitivity)
Photosensitivity is a response of our Immune system caused by exposure to sunlight. Your body will get red, itchy skin, blisters, or hives on sun-exposed areas. Treat this condition by avoiding sun exposure, using sunscreen, and covering up with protective clothing.
Gradual exposure to sunlight, using broad-spectrum sunscreen, and consulting a dermatologist for frequent reactions are a few preventive measures.
Causes of Seasonal Allergies
Environmental Allergens
These are caused by Pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds during spring and summer. The next reason could be mold spores, prevalent in damp, humid environments. Then, Dust mites and pet dander also play a role, which are commonly found indoors.
Lifestyle and Dietary Factors
Consumption of histamine-triggering foods like aged cheeses, fermented products, and shellfish also causes allergies. Moreover, the use of personal care items containing allergens such as fragrances or preservatives is also a reason.
Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies
Respiratory Symptoms
In our respiratory system, the main symptoms include sneezing, nasal congestion, and a runny nose. You may also notice an itchy throat, coughing, and post-nasal drip.
Ocular Symptoms
The symptoms, like red, itchy, watery eyes and swelling and irritation around the eyes, can be seen
Dermatological Symptoms
If you facing Itchy skin, hives and eczema flare-ups, then these are dermatological symptoms. Increased sensitivity to insect bites and environmental triggers is also a part of it.
Diagnosis of Seasonal Allergies
Clinical Evaluation
During the clinical evaluation, the patient’s detailed history and symptoms are monitored. Physical examination with ENT and skin conditions is a way to evaluate.
Allergy Testing
Skin prick tests and blood tests are performed to identify immediate allergic responses.
Treatment Options for Seasonal Allergies
Pharmacological Treatments
There are a lot of pharmaceutical treatments for allergies based on various reasons. Nasal spray, tablets, Inhalers and creams are the most suitable options according to your condition.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy involves allergy shots or sublingual tablets that slowly desensitise the immune system to specific allergens. The long-term solution provides relief and works well for serious or chronic allergies.
FAQ
Is it okay to exercise outdoors during allergy season?
Do not exercise outdoors during peak pollen hours. Choose early evening or indoor exercise.
How do I tell the difference between a cold and seasonal allergies?
Allergies typically make your eyes itch and last longer, while colds can have fever and body aches and clear up in 7–10 days.
Can seasonal allergies cause asthma or make it worse?
Yes, untreated allergies can exacerbate asthma, particularly in children and the elderly.
Conclusion
With rising temperatures and more environmental pollutants, summer allergies and associated diseases are more prevalent than ever. But early diagnosis, preventive treatment, and lifestyle changes can go a long way in lessening their impact.
At Patiala Heart Institute and Multispeciality Hospital, our specialist team provides state-of-the-art diagnostics, customized treatment, and preventive care programs to keep you and your family healthy, secure, and allergy-free during the summer season.
