Summer Allergy Triggers and How to Handle Them

by Kiki Bochi

For many people, summer means backyard barbecues, pool parties and outdoor fun. But if you suffer from allergies, all you want to do is hide inside.

Seasonal allergies can affect anyone, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. Avoiding exposure to potential summertime triggers and working with an allergist to find relief can help make summer more comfortable for all.

The following are a few surprising summer allergy and asthma triggers, as well as some suggestions for coping with them:

Summer fruits and veggies

An otherwise healthy snack can mean an oral allergy syndrome for people whose lips begin to tingle after sinking their teeth into a juicy peach – or melon, apple, celery and other fresh fruits and vegetables. People with common grass allergies can suffer from this condition, which is a cross-reaction between similar proteins in certain fruits and vegetables and the allergy-causing grass, tree or weed pollens. The simple solution is to avoid the offending food, or just put up with the annoying but short-lived (and seldom dangerous) reaction.

Changes in the weather

Be it stifling humidity or a refreshing cool breeze, sudden changes in the weather can trigger an asthma attack. Wind can spread pollen and stir up mold, affecting those who suffer from grass or tree pollen and mold allergies. Work with your doctor to develop an asthma action plan.

Campfire smoke

Toasting marshmallows or sitting out at a bonfire is a lot less fun if it results in an asthma attack. Smoke is a common asthma trigger. Sit upwind of the smoke and avoid getting too close to help prevent an asthma flare-up.

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Stinging insects

As if the pain isn’t bad enough, it is possible to develop a life-threatening allergic reaction to the sting of yellow jackets, bees, wasps, hornets and fire ants. Cover up when outdoors, avoid brightly colored clothing, forget the perfume and take caution when eating or drinking anything sweet, all of which attract stinging insects. Be especially careful with open soft drink cans. An allergist might advise carrying epinephrine for emergency relief in the event of being stung.

Chlorine

Although not an allergen, the smell of chlorine from pools or hot tubs can be an irritant and cause flare-ups of either allergy-like eye and nose symptoms or asthma in some people.