POLLEN, DUST, AND PET DANDER: HOW TO IDENTIFY AND MANAGE YOUR ALLERGY TRIGGERS

Allergies can make everyday life uncomfortable, by causing sneezing, itchy eyes, congestion, and other bothersome symptoms. Knowing what can cause allergies is the first step in managing allergies effectively. You might have a pollen allergy, dust allergy, or pet dander allergy, and identifying your triggers can help you take proactive steps to reduce exposure and find relief.

UNDERSTANDING ALLERGIES: WHAT CAUSES THEM?

Allergies occur when our immune systems overreact to substances (that are harmless to most people) known as allergens.¹³⁶

Some of the most common allergens include¹³⁶:

In this article, we will focus on three of the most common airborne allergens: pollen, dust, and pet dander.

POLLEN ALLERGIES:

A pollen allergy, often referred to as hay fever or allergic rhinitis, is triggered by microscopic pollen grains released into the air by plant, leading to symptoms such as¹³⁷:

• Sneezing
• Runny or congested nose
• Itchy eyes, nose, and throat
• Watery eyes
• Fatigue due to disrupted sleep from congestion

HOW TO REDUCE EXPOSURE TO POLLEN

Though it is not always possible or reasonable to completely avoid pollen, there are some things allergy sufferers can do to reduce exposure to it¹³⁸:

1. Monitor Pollen Counts: You can check daily pollen forecasts and stay inside or have windows and doors closed as much as possible when levels are high.
2. Keep Windows Closed: Use air conditioning instead of open windows during peak allergy seasons.
3. Change Clothes After Being Outside: To prevent pollen from being transferred into your house.
4. Shower Before Bed: Washing off pollen prevents it from spreading onto bedding.
5. Use a Vacuum Cleaner with HEPA filters.

DUST ALLERGIES: HIDDEN TRIGGERS IN YOUR HOME

A dust allergy is usually triggered by dust mites, tiny creatures that thrive in warm, humid environments. They are commonly found in bedding, carpets, upholstered furniture, and curtains.¹³⁹.

Symptoms of a Dust Allergy¹³⁹

• Sneezing
• Stuffy or runny nose
• Itchy, red, or watery eyes
• Coughing or wheezing
• Worsened asthma symptoms

HOW TO MINIMISE DUST EXPOSURE¹⁴⁰

1. Wash Bedding Weekly: Wash the bedding with hot water to make sure that dust mites are eliminated.¹⁴⁰
2. Use Allergen-Proof Covers: Encasing pillows and mattresses in dustproof covers can help to reduce dust mite build-up.¹⁴⁰
3. Vacuum Regularly: Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to make sure that you capture fine dust particles.¹⁴⁰
4. Reduce Humidity: Dust mites thrive in humid environments, so try to keep indoor humidity below 50% with a dehumidifier.¹⁴⁰

PET DANDER ALLERGIES: MANAGING YOUR ALLERGIES AROUND PETS

For pet lovers, a pet dander allergy can be particularly challenging. Pet allergies are triggered by proteins found in pet saliva, skin flakes (dander), and urine, causing symptoms similar to hay fever or asthma.¹⁴¹

Signs of a Pet Allergy¹⁴¹

• Sneezing and nasal congestion
• Itchy, watery eyes
• Skin rashes or hives after contact with pets
• Difficulty breathing or wheezing (especially for asthma sufferers)

HOW TO REDUCE PET ALLERGENS

Ideally, people with pet allergies should not have pets with feathers or fur.¹⁴² If you do, try the following to control the amount of pet dander you're exposed to:

MANAGING ALLERGIES: TREATMENT

While avoiding allergens completely is difficult, there are several treatments that can help you manage symptoms:

1. Over-the-Counter Treatments¹³⁶
   • Antihistamines
   • Nasal Sprays

   • Decongestants
   • Nasal saline irrigation
2. Prescription Treatments¹³⁶
   For severe allergies, a doctor may recommend:
   • Allergy Shots (Immunotherapy): Gradually exposes the immune system to allergens to build resistance.
   • Prescription Medications: Stronger antihistamines, steroids, or bronchodilators for more persistent symptoms.

WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR

If allergy symptoms persist despite taking preventive measures and using treatments, it may be time to see a doctor.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Allergies can be exceptionally frustrating, but they don't have to control your life. When you understand what can cause allergies and identify if you have a specific sensitivity – like a pollen allergy, dust allergy, or pet dander allergy – you can take steps toward managing it effectively. Reducing allergen exposure and exploring treatment options are both proactive approaches that can help people with managing allergies.