Environmental Allergy Symptoms
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Environmental Allergies
Pollen, mold, and bug bites are common culprits for causing spring sniffles. Here are some common signs and symptoms that may point to the presence of environmental allergies.
Common Allergens
According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology, allergens are generally harmless substances that trigger a response from the immune system. This causes your body to fight off the foreign particles—known as an allergic reaction. Some of the most frequently reported allergens include:
- Pollen
- Dust
- Pet dander
- Grass/ragweed
- Mold/mildew
- Cigarette smoke
Common Symptoms
Environmental allergy symptoms are often confused with cold and flu symptoms as they each tend to affect the respiratory system, however, they are not caused by the same things. While the cold and flu are viral infections, allergies are due to your immune system overreacting to substances in your environment.
Common signs and symptoms of environmental allergies include:
- Itchiness
- Runny nose
- Sneezing
- Nasal congestion
- Coughing and/or wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- Asthma attacks
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Itchy/irritated eyes
When to Seek Medical Attention
Although those suffering from allergies may become used to frequent mild symptoms like sneezing or congestion, if they continue to persist and hinder your quality of life, you should consult an allergist to address them.
In some cases, symptoms can be more severe. You should seek medical attention to address your symptoms if you experience any of the following:
- Over-the-counter medications don’t control your symptoms.
- You frequently feel short of breath.
- You experience frequent sinus infections and/or nasal congestion.