Pollen often gets blamed for summer allergy triggers. But other warm-weather staples, like freshly cut grass, chlorinated pools, and even some sunscreens, can trigger allergy-like reactions, putting a damper on your favorite summer activities.
The good news is that identifying what's behind your discomfort is the first step toward finding relief.
Srinagesh Paluvoi, MD, FAAP, FACAAI, and our team at Allergy & Asthma Affiliates in Lansdowne or Gainesville, Virginia, can help you uncover your (or your child’s) unique summer allergy triggers. Here are eight that you may not have on your radar.
The very thing you’re lathering on your skin to protect it may also cause irritation. Some ingredients in sunscreen can lead to allergic reactions like a rash, skin swelling, itching, blisters, or hives. If your or your child’s skin reacts after applying sunscreen, see Dr. Paluvoi for sunscreen recommendations containing hypoallergenic, fragrance-free ingredients.
Pool parties are often a summer staple, but some people react negatively to chlorine. Examples of reactions include red skin, itching skin, or hives caused by hypersensitivity to chlorine. Chlorine can also dry out your skin, which may irritate any existing dermatitis.
Frequent swimming in chlorinated pools can also boost the risk of asthma attacks and other respiratory symptoms. If you own a pool, check your chlorine levels regularly. If you’re able to swim in a saltwater pool instead, this option could be less irritating to your skin and lungs.
Grass allergies are common and can cause stuffiness, sneezing, a runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, and even asthma symptoms. You might develop hives or a skin rash after being exposed to grass clippings if you have a grass allergy.
If you notice symptoms during or right after mowing, consider wearing a mask to protect your airway or seek allergy treatment at Allergy & Asthma Affiliates.
Insect activity is in full swing during the summer months, and getting stung can trigger allergy symptoms in some people. Undergo allergy testing to learn if you’re allergic to bee stings or insect bites.
Severe allergies to bees may warrant using an epinephrine pen, which you can carry with you at all times if you’re at risk of anaphylaxis (life-threatening allergic reaction).
Direct sunlight exposure and heat can sometimes cause hives (red bumps on the skin) that appear when your body temperature increases, especially if you begin sweating. It’s an immune reaction some people experience when exercising in the heat or being exposed to very hot temperatures.
Protecting your skin from direct sun exposure and keeping your body temperature cool can help prevent bothersome symptoms.
Spending time outside gardening, hiking, or exploring wooded areas puts you at risk of contact with poison ivy, poison oak, and similar plants that can cause an itchy and painful rash.
Avoid contact with unknown plants and keep antihistamines and/or ointments on hand to treat allergic skin reactions. You might wear long pants and sleeves when hiking through brushy areas.
While summer campfires can create lasting memories, smoke can be a harmful irritant if you have asthma and/or allergies. It can even trigger an asthma attack. If you’re at a campfire and experience symptoms, sit farther away from the fire and move away anytime the wind blows smoke your way. You might choose to avoid campfires altogether.
Mold is an irritant during the summer months and year-round, as it can trigger allergic reactions and/or asthma attacks. If you haven’t used summer equipment (camping supplies, boating gear, sports equipment, etc. ) in a while, clean these items thoroughly to remove potentially irritating dust and mold.
Dr. Paluvoi offers personalized summer allergy treatment plans to help you and your family thoroughly enjoy summer activities without worrying about allergic reactions or asthma attacks.
He may recommend oral medications, allergy shots, an epinephrine pen, nasal sprays or rinses, allergy avoidance, or other lifestyle changes. Allergy testing allows Dr. Paluvoi to determine which allergens may be causing the most harm.
Allergy & Asthma Affiliates can also treat sinus infections, eczema, immunodeficiency, food allergies, chemical allergies, and similar concerns.
Schedule an appointment with Dr. Paluvoi at Allergy & Asthma Affiliates for a personalized summer allergy treatment plan. Contact our office by phone or request a visit online today.
