Allergies are one of the most common yet most overlooked diseases in the U.S. affecting up to 50 million annually.
Recently, the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of American published their 2014 edition of “The Most Challenging Places to Live with Spring Allergies.” It’s the 12th year of this report and St. Louis continues to climb in the ranks – which isn’t a good thing for those of us living here! Last year, St. Louis was ranked 31 and this year 20! (click here for the full report)
The ranking of the cities were based on analysis of data from factors including:
- Prevalence Data
- Seasonal Pollen Counts
- Allergy Medication Utilization Per Patient
What are Allergies?
Allergies, commonly known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis, are caused by immune systems hypersensitivity. Allergic reactions occur when a person’s immune system reacts to normally harmless substances (or allergens) in the environment.
Allergens May Be:
- Pollens
- Molds
- Dust
- Animal Dander
- Food
By far the allergens that cause the most sinus problems are those that we inhale such as pollens and molds.
When the body comes in contact with something it is allergic to, it causes a series of reactions. These reactions often involve tissue destruction, blood vessel dilation, and production of many inflammatory substances, including histamine. Histamine produces common allergy symptoms.
Common Allergy Symptoms Include:
- Itchy, Watery Eyes
- Nasal Congestion
- Sinus Congestion
- Runny Nose
- Post nasal drip
- Headaches
- Sneezing
- Scratchy throat
- Hives
- Shortness of breath or Wheezing
Allergies have a significant impact on quality of life and financial burden. At the St. Louis Sinus Center, we are committed to improving your allergy symptoms! The first and most important step is to accurately diagnose the allergy problem.
Spring Allergies
Allergens are in the air all the time, but many trees, grasses and weeds have a certain time of year during which they pollinate. Seasonal allergies usually cause symptoms of nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, itchy/watery eyes and wheezing.
Missouri is known for its pollen producing trees, grasses and weeds, as well as for the seasonal allergies they cause. Trees and grasses mainly contribute to what is known as the “spring and summer allergy season” while the weeds tend to be the cause of the “fall allergy season.”
Trees
- Cottonwood
- Elm
- Maple
- Maple Leaf Sycamore
- Mountain Cedar
- Oak
- Pecan/Hickory
- Walnut
- White Ash
Grasses
If you suspect allergies are causing your symptoms, it is important to establish an accurate diagnosis and plan of action to address the symptoms. Contact the St. Louis Sinus Center today for an appointment! Click here>
