Summer is slowly ending and with autumn approaching Mother Nature is starting to make some changes. Cooler temperatures and changing atmospheric pressure results in wind and cloud formations and ultimately rainfall. As plants begin their seasonal changes yellow and gold leaves fall to the ground, tree pollination subsides and the grass pollens gradually decrease.
But weed pollination becomes heavier from mid-July to the beginning of November and rain on fallen leaves causes excessive growth of mold. For many people symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, wheezing and congestion occur. Other symptoms may include tearing, redness and itching of the eyes, throat and roof of the mouth. Any or all of these conditions may cause allergy sufferers to reach a high level of exhaustion. Asthmatics might suffer the same symptoms coupled with shortness of breath, tightness of the chest and fatigue. Patients who have seasonal allergies can expect symptoms to occur primarily in the spring and fall. Some patients suffer year round and become worse in the spring and fall. Perennial allergies are very common in Southern California where seasonal changes are not very distinctive. Patients who are allergic to dust mites, molds, pet hair and dander also have year round symptoms. The following suggestions are made to help alleviate allergic reactions.
1. Stay out of areas where weeds are most abundant, such as the desert and
wilderness areas.
2. Keep your car windows closed and use the air conditioner.
3. Avoid all gardening tasks such as mowing, raking leaves or weeding.
4. Stay inside when it is windy
5. Keep home and work areas dust free.
6. Wear a mask if you must clean.
7. Keep your pet out of your bedroom or out of the house altogether and conside
finding it another home.
8. Avoid exposure to cigarette smoke and other pollutants.
For long term relief you should see an allergist. This is a doctor who specializes in allergies and can properly diagnose your condition, and the cause, and provide you with treatment for permanent relief.
For more information please call our Valencia office at 661-259-6996.