An allergy is an overreaction of the immune system to certain substances. These substances can trigger coughing, sneezing, and wheezing. Allergies are not only bothersome, but many have been linked to serious chronic respiratory illnesses (such as sinusitis and asthma). There is hope, allergic diseases can be controlled.
Consider some of the substances that cause allergic reactions
- Pollen, especially ragweed, which causes hay fever
- Mould from plants and food, which are most likely to cause asthma
- Dust and dust mites
- Dander from house pets
POLLEN
Pollen is one of the leading causes of seasonal allergies. In spring and summer pollen particles are released into the air we breathe, causing seasonal rhinitis, commonly referred to as hay fever (nasal/sinus allergies). A single plant may produce millions of pollen grains per day. Individuals with pollen allergies can develop sensitivities to other allergens such as dust mites, pet dander, and mould spores.
MOULD
Moulds are a leading cause of seasonal allergic rhinitis. There are thousands of types of mould. It is usually mould spores that actually cause mould allergies. A single mould growth can spawn millions of spores.
Moulds can be found wherever moisture and oxygen are present. Inside your home, moulds can be found in basements, bathrooms, air conditioning, humidifiers,and anywhere damp like walls or carpet.
Mould allergies are caused by inhaled mould spores. Spores lodge in the upper respiratory system or in the lungs where they cause irritation.
DUST MITES AND HOUSE DUST
In the home, the most significant contributor to allergies is the dust mite. In fact, clinical studies show that allergic sensitization to the house dust mite is the most common cause of allergy in asthmatics.
Dust mites are microscopic relatives of ticks and spiders that thrive in warm, humid places. The harmful allergens are actually found in the dust mite's faecal matter. These allergen become airborne and are easily breathed into the lungs. House dust mites primarily live on dead skin cells regularly shed from humans and their animal pets.
Dust mites thrive in mattresses and carpets. The average bedroom can be infested with millions of mites. Given the amount of time the average individual spends in bed each day, dust mites account for the allergy misery of millions of Americans daily.
PET DANDER
Symptoms of pet allergies include sneezing, watery and itching eyes, hives, coughing, soar throat, post nasal drip, stuffy nose, and breathing difficulties.
Surprisingly, pet hair is not considered to be a very significant allergen . Most pet allergies are caused by proteins secreted by oil glands in the animal's skin. These proteins are shed in skin flakes or dander as it is often known. Dander becomes airborne and causes respiratory difficulty.