Many people prefer spring and summer to winter for its warmer weather, the colors of flowers in bloom, and being able to get outside to exercise more. Yet, for many folks, these seasons come with allergies, and that means feeling miserable for a while. The budding flowers, swaying grasses, and high pollen counts can turn a sunny day into one that’s full of sneezing and itching. Are there unexpected issues caused by allergies?
Yes. Let’s look further at the answer with three examples. But, first, why are allergies such an issue in the warmer months?
What is It about Summer that Causes Allergies?
More sunlight and heat can increase common allergens. That means pollen, mold, and dust mites are going to affect those sensitive or allergic to these things worse than ever. It’s no wonder than that spring and summer peak times for many allergy sufferers.
Not sure if you have an allergy? Sneezing, watery eyes, itchy eyes, and congestion are the symptoms of allergies that happen a lot. These conditions can also lead to unexpected and serious health issues.
Below are three lesser known but significant consequences of allergies. They are a decline in hearing, skin-related issues, and nasal growths.
Hearing Loss
Thinking about the effects of allergies, hearing loss probably doesn’t come to mind immediately. But there is a relationship. The connection between allergies and hearing loss is very real and can be disturbing.
During an allergic reaction, the body releases a chemical called histamine as part of its immune response to perceived threats like pollen or dust mites. That leads to inflammation and congestion or feeling stuffed up, potentially affecting the Eustachian tubes that connect the throat to the middle ear.
The purpose of the Eustachian tubes is to maintain the pressure balance between the middle ear and the atmosphere. When these tubes become inflamed or get clogged up, which allergies can do, that disrupts the pressure balance. Hence, why you might experience a feeling of fullness, discomfort, or even feel like your ears are blocked.
For those already dealing with hearing issues, seasonal allergies can exacerbate the problem.
Breaking the Skin Barrier
Allergies can wreak havoc on more than only your airways. They can also severely affect the skin too. Yes, it can lead to eczema flare-ups. This and other skin conditions often show as intense itching and redness. The skin is inflamed. While scratching the affected areas might feel good in the moment, it can also break the skin barrier. That leaves you vulnerable to bacterial infections.
The skin barrier is our body’s first line of defense against harmful things causing disease. When this barrier is compromised, bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus can invade. That can grow to become infections requiring medical treatment. Scratching also adds to the inflammation, making the skin even more vulnerable to damage and infection.
For those suffering from skin allergies again and again, figuring out how to manage the itch is crucial to prevent complications. A medical professional may suggest over-the-counter antihistamines, topical steroids, and certain moisturizers to help reduce itching and inflammation.
Abnormal Growth in the Nose
Frequent allergic rhinitis, commonly known as hay fever, causes that annoying sneezing and runny nose. Did you know you might also develop nasal polyps? Nasal polyps are noncancerous and usually painless, growing in the lining of the nose or sinuses. They develop from chronic inflammation.
Allergic rhinitis triggers inflammation in the nasal area. If that continues a long time or happens again and again, it, can cause the mucous membranes to swell. Over time, this constant swelling can result in the formation of polyps.
For those already prone to allergies, the development of nasal polyps can complicate their symptoms and require medical help. Treatments include nasal corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and surgery to remove the polyps. Surgery is typically only for extreme cases.
Final Words
Allergies are an annoying part of spring and summer. But they can be more than just that, potentially bringing serious health issues. The three examples above are likely not ones you’d expect!
Understanding potential complications can help you know what to look for and when to get medical help. If you’re experiencing any of these issues, see a doctor to find out how to keep things from getting worse and how to stay more comfortable, especially during months when it’s most challenging. This article is not intended as medical advice.
Photo by Letícia Pelissari on Unsplash.
I take antihistamines all year round and use a nose spray during winter. I suffer from allergies.
It’s unbearable some days for my husband, so I’ve learned a lot about allergies… Sorry to hear you suffer too, Robbie.