Environmental Allergy

Introduction

Runny noses, itchy watery eyes, and sneezing bother many Americans with environmental allergies, especially during pollen season.  While outdoor allergies from grass, weeds, and trees may be seasonal, indoor allergies from dust mites and pet dander can cause problems all year round.  There are many ways you can reduce your exposure to allergens (things that cause allergies).  Immunotherapy shots are a way to desensitize the body and can provide permanent freedom from allergies for many people.

Anatomy

Causes

Symptoms

Diagnosis

Treatment

Prevention

You can help prevent allergies by avoiding the allergens that you can.  Here are some tips:
• Take a shower after spending time outdoors.
• Wash pets once a week.
• Wash bed linens in the hottest water possible.  Do not dry laundry outside. Use special allergy covers on pillows and mattresses.
• Keep windows shut and use an allergen filter in your central air conditioner and heating system. Keep the humidity in your house as low as possible.
• Vacuum rugs and keep floors clean.

Am I at Risk

The following are risk factors for environmental allergies:
• Allergies can run in families.  If other members of your family have allergies, you have a risk of developing allergies. 
• If you have one type of allergy, you are more likely to have another type of allergy.
• If you have asthma, you have an increased risk for allergies
• Children are more likely to develop allergies, although allergies can occur at any age.

Complications