Types of allergies
People can be allergic to a wide variety of substances, the most common of
which are pollen and dust mites. Airborne allergens include:
- Pollen
Seasonal allergic rhinitis, or hay fever, is the allergic response to
pollen. It causes inflammation and swelling of the lining of the nose and of
the protective tissue of the eyes (conjunctiva).
Symptoms include sneezing, congestion, and itchy, watery eyes.
Treatment options include over-the-counter and prescription antihistamines,
anti-leukotrienes, nasal steroids, and nasal cromolyn. Some individuals may have
allergic asthma symptoms (wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness)
provoked by pollen exposures. Avoidance measures can be very effective for
helping reduce symptoms; these include avoiding pollen exposure by staying
indoors when pollen counts are high, closing windows, and using air
conditioning. Immunotherapy, or allergy shots, also may be used to treat pollen
allergy.
- Dust mites
Dust mites are microscopic organisms that live in dust and in the fibers
of household objects, such as pillows, mattresses, carpet, and upholstery.
Dust mites especially love warm, humid areas.
The symptoms of dust mite allergy are similar to those of pollen
allergy. To help manage dust mite allergies, try using dust mite encasements
(airtight plastic/polyurethane covers) over pillows, mattresses, and box
springs. Also, remove carpet, or vacuum frequently while using a vacuum cleaner
with high-efficiency filters. Treatment may include medications to control
nasal/eye and chest symptoms. Immunotherapy may be recommended for people whose
symptoms are not adequately controlled with avoidance and medications.
- Molds
Molds are parasitic, microscopic fungi (like Penicillium) with
spores that float in the air like pollen. Mold is a common trigger for
allergies and can be found indoors in damp areas, such as the basement or
bathroom, as well as in the outdoor environment in grass, leaf piles, hay,
mulch, or under mushrooms. Mold spores peak during hot, humid weather.
Treatment may include medications to control nasal/eye and chest
symptoms. Immunotherapy may be recommended for people whose symptoms are not
adequately controlled with avoidance and medications.
- Animal dander
The proteins secreted by sweat glands in an animal’s skin, which are
shed in dander, and to a lesser extent the proteins present in an animal’s
saliva, can cause allergic reactions in some people. No avoidance measures
can compare with elimination of the pet from the home. However, as many
people are reluctant to do this, second-best measures include restricting
the pet from the bedroom, using air cleaners with HEPA filtration, and
washing the pet (cat or dog) frequently.