What is an Allergy?
An allergy is when your immune system has a reaction to something in your environment, such as pollen, mold, dust, and animal dander. These things, called allergens, can trigger a body’s immune system to react with itchy, watery eyes, sneezing, runny nose, itchy nose and throat, sinus pain, among others. Allergies are quite common, affecting at least 1 in 5 people.
When is Allergy Season?
Allergy season usually strikes in spring, when the temperature first rises to about 60 degrees and stays there for 3 to 4 days. This is the perfect time for plants to bloom, releasing pollen into the air. While people can be affected by allergies year-round, spring allergy season is the most extreme.
Cold vs. Allergy
Colds and allergies have similar symptoms but there is a difference. The full life cycle of a cold is usually seven to ten days. Allergies will last as long as you are exposed to the substance that causes reaction. Unlike colds, allergies will cause their eyes and nose to itch and the mucus they cough up is clear instead of thick or yellowish.
Know the Pollen Count
Many people suffer from allergies caused by pollen from plants such as grasses, ragweed, and oak trees. The pollen these plants travel through the air, and at certain times of the year can really play havoc on your immune system. You can learn the pollen count from your local weather broadcast or online and be better be prepared when going outside.