As school buses roll and families settle back into the school-year schedule, it’s important to remember that summer isn’t over yet. And neither are summer allergies. Even in September, many people continue suffering from sneezes, wheezes and runny noses from allergies.

Pollen

If you’ve ever experienced summer allergies, chances are the main culprit is pollen, the single biggest cause of allergies during the summer months. Released from certain types of weeds and grasses, pollen typically reaches its highest levels at midday, although environmental factors can affect these levels. For instance, if it’s windy outside, pollen levels will be higher. If it rains, they will be lower.

In later summer, one of the greatest triggers of summer allergies is ragweed. It can travel hundreds of miles in the wind, and it’s responsible for causing hay fever in some people.

To reduce your exposure to pollen, try to limit the amount of time you spend outside in the middle of the day. You can also change clothes after going inside, dry your laundry in the dryer or an inside clothesline and cover your nose and mouth while mowing or working in the yard.

Insects

But limiting your exposure to pollen won’t help with stinging insects like bees, wasps, some ants and other types of bugs that come out during the summer. And if you have a severe allergy to them, it could be life threatening.

Usually, insect bites cause mild symptoms like itching and swelling around the area. But if you feel like your throat or tongue is swelling up, or you feel dizzy, nauseated or start to go into shock, this is a severe allergic reaction and you should seek medical help immediately.

If you know you have a severe allergy to a bee sting or you’re unsure, it’s a good idea to keep an epinephrine auto injector (EpiPen) nearby just in case. These can be used to save your life during a severe reaction.

Mold and Mites

Thanks to warm, humid summer air, it’s also the prime time for mold to grow, especially in basements and bathrooms. Mold spores can cause allergic reactions.

Microscopic insects called dust mites also peak in the summer. These tiny bugs live in bedding, upholstery, carpets or curtains, and their residue can get into the air and cause sneezing, wheezing and a runny nose.

To minimize dust mites in your home, wash bedding frequently (in hot water to kill the dust mites) and vacuum often. You can also freeze nonwashable bedding overnight to kill dust mites. And when cleaning dust, use a damp mop or rag (dry dusting will introduce more allergens into the air).

For general allergy treatment, there are several over-the-counter options that can help alleviate your discomfort, such as antihistamines, decongestants, nasal spray decongestants, eye drops and more. If you feel like your allergies are severe and the above options aren’t helping, talk to your doctor about prescription options.

Looking for a Provider?

If you are looking for a primary care provider, Aultman Medical Group Primary Care has many providers ready to take care of you and your family. Many of our offices are accepting new patients – and more than likely, we have a location in your community.

Visit aultman.org/NewDoc to find a provider in your area who is accepting new patients, or call the new patient hotline at 330-433-1264 for assistance with scheduling your appointment.