Allergy Season & What Is Blooming

Allergy season usually starts in the spring when certain plants and trees are growing. A person with seasonal allergies usually reacts to the airborne pollen produced from these plants.

Significance

• According to the Allergy & Asthma Foundation of American 17 million outpatient office visits are attributed to allergies in the spring and fall. Half of all allergy visits are attributed to seasonal allergies.

Types

• A person can be allergic to pollen from grass, oak, maple, flowers and mold. Plants and trees in which people are allergic vary throughout the country.

Other Allergies

• One can also be allergic to certain weeds. Ragweed can cause what is commonly known as "hay fever" symptoms in the late summer and fall.

Effects

• People with seasonal allergies can suffer from a runny nose, sneezing and even watery eyes.

Considerations

• A person with seasonal allergies can usually alleviate their symptoms with over-the-counter antihistamines. Certain nasal sprays may also be effective in preventing certain symptoms. Corticosteroids are often prescribed for more severe allergy symptoms. Moreover, one may need to get allergy shots to build up their immunity.