Time Frame

• During spring and summer, warm temperatures promote the pollination of plants, trees and grasses. Autumn weather assists in the growth of ragweed and accumulation of mold on decaying organic material such as leaves, mulch and wood.
  
  

Significance

• Environmental inhalants such as seasonal pollen and mold enter the body through the eyes, nose or mouth, triggering temporary hay fever and ragweed allergies, sinusitis and allergic asthma.
  
  

Effects

• Exposure to seasonal triggers causes inflammation in the mucous membranes resulting in symptoms of nasal congestion, sneezing, itchy and watery eyes, coughing, skin irritation and migraines within five minutes of contact.
  
  

Considerations

• Mold and pollen counts peak due to breezy weather that transports the irritants, resulting in decreased air quality for allergic and asthmatic individuals, which causes wheezing, shortness of breath, and asthma attacks.
  
  

Prevention/Solution

• Seasonal allergy symptoms can be reduced by limiting outdoor activity and exposure to triggers. Inhalers, antihistamines, allergy shots, cough suppressants and decongestants can treat and alleviate seasonal allergy symptoms.