Why Your Seasonal Allergies Keep Coming Back – Tests Every Patient Should Know

Are you someone who welcomes the rainy season with excitement – or with a sneeze and watery eyes? Well, not only the rainy season, but any change of season brings an onset of seasonal allergies to many of us. 

You may shrug it off, calling it a seasonal thing, but here is something that will change your mindset. Not everyone gets allergies at the change of season, and those who do might have some environmental triggers. A range of tests, such as LifeCell’s Allergy Comprehensive Panel, can detect your allergy triggers and help you take better control of your health. 

So, while seasonal allergies are a common condition that affects both children and adults, you can be better prepared to deal with them. Early identification and testing play an important role in managing your allergies. 

This blog educates you about seasonal allergies, their common triggers, symptoms and how to manage them effectively via tests. 

What are Seasonal Allergies?

As the name suggests, seasonal allergies occur when the body’s immune system overreacts to harmless substances in the environment, such as dust, pollen or mold spores. While these particles don’t affect most people, some individuals have an overresponsive immune system that treats them as threats. 1, 2, 3

Also known by the terms hay fever or allergic rhinitis, these allergies occur when the immune system mistakenly identifies these allergens as harmful and releases chemicals like histamine. This reaction causes allergy symptoms like watery eyes, itching, sneezing or congestion.1, 2, 3

Common Triggers of Seasonal Allergies

The triggers of seasonal allergies often vary depending on the time of the year and the geographical location. Understanding these triggers can help in managing seasonal allergies. The common ones include: 2,3 5

• Mold Spores – Mold growth rises in damp weather conditions. Mold spores can aggravate certain sensitive individuals.

• Pollen Allergy – One of the most common triggers, pollen from trees, grasses and weeds is at its peak during the spring and fall season, causing widespread allergic reactions in many people.

• Air Pollution – High levels of pollution can irritate the airways and intensify allergy symptoms in many people.
• Dust and Dander – Pet dander and dust mites in the air worsen during a seasonal change or when homes are not ventilated or cleaned properly, leading to allergies.

Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies

Most symptoms of allergies mimic those of the common cold. The only difference is that allergies may last as long as the person is exposed to the allergen. The common allergy symptoms include: 1,4

• Sneezing and a runny nose
• Nasal congestion
• Watery, itchy, or red eyes
• Itchy throat, ears, or roof of the mouth
• Fatigue due to poor sleep from congestion
• In some cases, coughing or wheezing
  

Who is at Risk?

Although anyone can develop seasonal allergies, some people have a higher risk factor: 6

• Family history of allergies, asthma, or eczema
• Living in areas with high pollen counts or pollution
• Having existing respiratory conditions
• Weakened immune system due to other illnesses
  

Allergy Testing 

It is not possible to manage seasonal allergies by identifying your allergy trigger. You can know exactly what triggers your symptoms by doing an allergy test. 

Common Tests include: 7

• • Skin Tests: Skin tests involve pricking the skin with a tiny amount of suspected allergens to quickly check for redness, swelling, or inflammation, usually giving results within 30 minutes to 48 hours.
• Blood Tests: Blood tests for seasonal allergies involve drawing blood to check for reactions to multiple allergens; results take several days, and they’re ideal for those with chronic skin conditions. 

Such a test confirms if you are allergic to dust mites, pollen, mould or any other environmental factor. 

Advanced diagnostic tools, such as the Allergy Comprehensive Panel by LifeCell, enable doctors to test for a wide range of allergens using a single sample. This not only saves time but also provides a clear roadmap for a personalised allergy treatment plan.

How to Manage Seasonal Allergies?

Once diagnosed, managing seasonal allergies is easier by following certain preventive measures, lifestyle changes and treatments: 2,8

• Avoiding Triggers

It is best to stay indoors during peak pollen seasons or wear sunglasses or a mask when stepping out. Keep windows closed during seasonal change and use air purifiers at home to minimise dust and dander indoors.

• Medications

Over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medications can significantly reduce allergy symptoms. Some common ones include:

• Decongestants 
• Nasal Sprays
• Antihistamines
  

• Natural Remedies

Some natural approaches like local honey, herbal teas or saline nasal rinses also work for some individuals. While these natural remedies are not a substitute for medical care, they can complement other treatments.

• Immunotherapy

Allergy shots or sublingual tablets may help people with severe allergies. These gradually train the immune system to tolerate allergens, reducing long-term dependence on medication. 

Wrapping Up

Seasonal allergies may not be curable, but they are definitely manageable with the right strategies. Although tough, the immune system can be guided to reduce its overreaction to allergens. The right treatment can allow individuals to enjoy the changing seasons and minimise their discomfort.

From understanding your triggers with advanced diagnostic tests like LifeCell’s Allergy Comprehensive Panel, to making smart lifestyle changes, one can effectively manage their health. 

To explore more advanced diagnostic solutions beyond allergy testing, visit LifeCell Diagnostics and take charge of your health today.