Millions of people have allergies that can cause symptoms ranging from sneezing, congestion, and itchy eyes to swelling, difficulty breathing, and beyond.  Allergies can exacerbate asthma symptoms in people with asthma.  Whatever the case, it’s important to be aware of some of the leading triggers of allergic reactions.

Pollen

One of the most common triggers of allergies is pollen.  Trees can be among the most productive producers of pollen, but most plants produce pollen of one kind or another.  Grass and weeds can also be a large source of allergy-triggering pollen.  Pollen-producing plants reproduce by releasing enormous quantities of pollen in the spring in the hope that some of the pollen makes its way to pollinate the female plant.  Because this kind of pollination is not targeted, plants that rely on the wind (rather than, for example, insects) to spread their pollen must release enormous quantities in order to have a higher chance to make it to pollinate the female.  This is why pollen allergies have seasonal fluctuations, as many trees release pollen in the spring and why pollen allergies are often referred to as “seasonal allergies.”

Dust Mites

Dust mites are microscopic insects so named because they live in the dust in our homes.  Dust is generally made up of shed skin cells, pollen, fungi, and other tiny detritus, which is exactly what dust mites feed on.  They will therefore thrive wherever dust collects.  Because they live in our homes, they are a year-round problem, although in general they do prefer warm and humid environments.

Animal Dander

Pet allergies are usually caused by animal dander, which is a mix of protein secreted from oil glands in the skin or found in saliva.  The dander gets into the animal’s fur, and from there can affect people either through contact with the animal or by inhaling shed fur.  Some people are less susceptible to certain breeds such as Poodles or Cornish Rexes, which has influenced the myth that some animals are “hypoallergenic,” but in fact all pets produce dander and can potentially trigger allergies.

Mold

Molds are microscopic fungi that reproduce by shooting spores into the air, much like pollen.  Molds prefer to grow in dark, damp environments such as bathrooms and basements in houses.  Outside, it will grow in piles of leaves or mulch, and doing yardwork can spread the spores.  It’s important to keep bathrooms and basements dry by tiling the floor and providing good ventilation to help keep mold from growing.  Repair any leaks quickly.  Like dust mites, mold can grow year-round, as long as the environment is warm and damp.

Cockroaches

Cockroaches are a common problem in cities and in the southern United States.  Like pet dander, cockroaches produce proteins in their saliva and feces that can trigger allergies.  Often a cockroach population can go undetected in a home, as they will live in the walls or hide out of sight.  The larger the population of cockroaches, the greater the potential for allergy-triggering compounds to spread through the environment.  The sighting of a single cockroach or of signs of cockroach habitation likely indicates a much larger hidden population.  The best prevention is to seal cracks and keep food in containers with lids.  Take out the trash promptly, and clean up after meals and pets.

Insect Stings

Most of the time, insect stings are only a momentary discomfort, with some swelling and redness near the site of the sting.  However, some people have much more severe reactions.  Insects are generally everywhere in the world, and stinging insects can be found in most places.  When going outdoors, don’t wear bright colors or scented cosmetics that can attract stinging insects.  Cover the skin with long-sleeved shirts and pants, and have insecticide available.

Latex

Latex is found in many medical devices and condoms, but is most often in gloves.  People with latex allergies should avoid latex products, and, because latex is so prevalent in the medical field, those people should probably wear MedicAlert bracelets to warn doctors of the allergy.

Food and Medication

People have a wide range of allergies to different kinds of food and medication.  Because everyone needs to eat, and many people require medicine, these allergy-triggers are everywhere.  It’s important to know if you have allergic reactions to any foods or medicines so that you can take precautions and avoid those things.  Tell your doctor if you have allergies to any medication, even if it’s mild.

Many things can trigger allergies, and millions of people suffer from allergies.  However, understanding what those triggers are and talking with your doctor about treatment can reduce the suffering.  If you have any questions about your allergies or want help treating an allergy, you can search for a physician that specializes in allergy care through IPALC’s Group and Physician Directory at www.ipalc.org/find.  Or if you have any questions you can contact IPALC directly at info@ipalc.org to get assistance from one of the members of our helpful staff.