Types

• Allergies are a disorder in which the immune system responds adversely to an ingested or airborne substance that would normally not be harmful, causing histamine to release within the body. Histamine responds to allergens with inflammation causing symptoms hives, congestion, itchy or runny nose, watery eyes, migraines, asthma attacks and anaphylaxis in severe cases. Allergies can be tested through skin tests, blood tests and physical exams.
  
  

Identification

• Physical urticaria is a chronic allergy brought on by skin exposure to heat, cold temperatures, sunlight, pressure or exercise. Urticaria results in hive-like symptoms producing tiny red spots all over the affected area. While urticaria can be treated with antihistamines, exposure therapy and steroids, living in places with fewer annual temperature fluctuations, less humidity and sunlight and a cooler average climate may decrease reactions presented by heat-induced or solar-induced urticaria. Those suffering from cold urticaria, may consider living in a more temperate climate with less exposure to freezing air, harsh winter temperatures and cold precipitation.
  
  

Effects

• Environmental allergies occur with seasonal exposure to insect bites, pollinating plants, trees and grass. Pollen counts measure the amount of pollen within a certain area. High counts mean there is a large concentration of pollen being transported by insects, spores or wind throughout the air, with hot, dry weather promoting the transport. During winter and spring, trees and shrubs begin to pollinate with oak, elms, maples and elders being among the top triggers. Grasses typically pollinate in the late spring and summer. Areas abundant in forests and woodlands typically have high pollen counts during warm temperatures. The northeastern and northwestern parts of the United States have lower pollen counts due to cooler, rainier climates.
  
  

Considerations

• Mold is a type of fungi that grows on decaying logs, grass and leaves during the spring. Mold counts increase with humidity, dew and high temperatures. Mold allergies tend to surface during summer months when counts peak due to breezy, hot weather conducive to spreading spores. Mold can manifest inside and outside, causing respiratory problems and nasal allergies. Both mold and pollen counts are highest in southeastern states with dense vegetation, high humidity percentages and hot climates. Colder temperatures tend to lessen the amount of environmental allergens circulating in the air, preventing allergic reactions.
  
  

Warning

• Pollution plays a role in triggering allergies and asthma. Chemical irritants, smog, smoke and fumes enter the air from factories, people and vehicle exhausts. City environments become laden with triggers as there is more combustion and toxins concentrated in one area, decreasing the air quality. Coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath are symptoms of pollutant-triggered allergic reactions. Limiting outdoor exposure may assist in relieving reactions. Dry weather with little rain or wind typically promotes stagnant air, resulting in higher pollution levels.