Six of the Most Common Types of Allergies
Though allergies are associated with specific seasons plaguing us only at certain points of the year, allergies can come out to attack in many different ways. Some allergens thrive even in our most comfortable environments.
Whether it is a reaction to the seasons changing, a pet shedding, or dust brought up from cleaning, allergens find their way into our inhabited spaces and make us sick. Pollen is our most notable allergen, as we see it during different seasons. However, other allergies can have just as great of an effect all year!
Six of the Most Common Types of Allergies
Below are the most common types of allergies and can be a bother all year long
- Mold Spores
- Oder-Infused Particles
- Dust
- Pollen
- Pet Dander
- Dust Mite Debris
Mold Spores
Mold spores in a home are not only a hassle to deal with but also can cause a spark in your allergies. Whether the mold is noticeable or not, these pesky spores inhabit the same spaces we do and cause a plethora of annoying symptoms. Reactions from mold spores can be simple, a runny nose or itchy eyes, or they can show in more dramatic ways. A particularly bad allergy to mold spores can lead to asthma-like symptoms and other respiratory issues. Though supplements and medication can help stop some of the reactions to mold spores, it is ultimately best to avoid them altogether.
Odor-Infused Particles
An essential part of keeping your spaces comfortable and healthy is making them smell as such. Regular cleaning and spraying of scented products in your preferred rooms can help to keep the aroma of cleanliness but also end up stimulating your allergies! Odor-Infused Particles can be found in an array of products. Aerosol sprays, cleaners, perfumes, candles, etc. emit an odor that, in some instances, can trigger allergies. According to a study done in 2009, up to 30% of the population has a sensitivity to perfumes. Not only did they find that many people had an allergy to fragrances, but they also identified 2,500 chemicals often found in perfumes as an aggravator to allergies.
Dust
As stated above, regular cleaning is another critical part of keeping your spaces clean and healthy. However, a side effect of cleaning can be kicking up dust and allergens. The relationship between dust and different forms of allergy symptoms is well known and researched at this point. In extreme cases, like with most irritants, dust has been linked to asthma and respiratory irritation. Dust can also be found outside the household, settling on 90% of our used surfaces. Since this particular allergen is so plentiful, certain groups of people have sensitivities. Luckily, there are supplements and, in extreme cases, medication to quell symptoms.
Dust Mite Debris
Dust mites are another factor when it comes to regularly occurring dust allergies. Around 5-30% of the population have hypersensitivity to not only dust but to dust mites and the debris they expel. Symptoms can include allergies, a runny nose, nasal irritation, and sneezing. They can also run on the severe side, including coughing, sinus clogging and irritation, asthma, and even eczema. These symptoms can become a chronic problem. Dust mites can be a hassle to deal with and a pain when causing symptoms.
Pollen
When allergies are a topic, seasonal allergies are sure to come up. Specifically in areas of the U.S., allergy season begins in February and continues through the summer though it is not exclusive to this time. A particular allergen, ragweed, tends to be its worst near the end of summer and into the fall. Tree pollen tends to irritate more in the earliest parts of the year, and grass pollen near the end of spring and into summer. However, enjoying the outdoors is an essential part of these seasons, which can lead to annoying and sometimes severe symptoms. Follow the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America to learn more about this subject.
Pet Dander
Pets of all shapes and sizes come with more than just companionship! An added part of taking care of the wide variety of household pets is the dander and allergens they shed. Pet fur can expel dander (dead skin cells). Like dust, pet dander can cover surfaces throughout most used spaces in homes and other areas. Dander can stick to furniture, sheets, and clothing, causing reactions like other forms of allergies. Antihistamine supplements are a great tool to help symptoms.
Allergies can be a bother all year round, especially if they follow us into our homes and other comfortable spaces. Mold spores, odor-infused particles, dust, pollen, pet dander, and dust mites are some of the most common irritants that lead to allergies. Instead of dealing with bothersome and aggressive symptoms, try our solution to help with these effects.