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Allergies, Asthma and the Weather

Have the last few rainstorms caused you allergy symptoms? For many people, weather changes mean health issues. Some experience allergies, asthma attacks, migraines, joint pains and more.

Patients with allergies can experience symptoms year round depending on the season and weather. When it is dry and windy, pollen blows throughout the air. It is best to keep windows and doors shut during this time. When it rains and is humid, moisture causes mold to grow.  Water also keeps pollen on the ground which helps those who are allergic to pollen. Cold air tends to cause asthma flare ups for those exercising outdoors. The air takes longer to warm up before getting to the lungs, causing asthmatics to cough. Meanwhile, hot weather can also cause asthma problems due to air pollution.

During the spring, states with cooler weather have plants releasing pollen into the air in February and March, such as trees. Grass pollen begins in early spring, while weeds become a trigger later in the summer and normally die off after the first frost. Molds are typically at their highest during fall, mainly in August in the cooler states. When it turns cold during winter we spend more time inside. This causes indoor allergens such as pets and dust to trigger allergy symptoms.

Those with non-allergic rhinitis (negative allergy test) experience similar symptoms with sudden weather and temperature changes. Symptoms include sneezing, congestion, runny nose and sinus pressure. Antihistamines will not relieve any symptoms for those with non-allergic rhinitis. The best thing to do is schedule an appointment with your doctor or Allergist. If you do not have allergies, they may recommend nasal washes, nasal steroids and decongestants. You can live symptom free whether you have allergies or not!