Dallas, TX has a unique humid subtropical climate that can be broken down into four distinct annual seasons. January is usually the coldest month, whereas July and August are typically the hottest months. Seasons are particularly important in Dallas because research carried out by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation found that Dallas ranks as the 23rd worst US city for allergies. Here is some information about early season allergies in Dallas, Texas.
An Overview of Allergies
Allergies are adverse reactions that occur whenever the immune system encounters an allergen. When this happens, the immune system triggers excess production of histamine, which causes symptoms such as inflammation. In some cases, allergies can persist for long enough to cause chronic conditions including asthma and rhinitis. For this reason, individuals who are allergic to allergens such as pollen should take allergy medications such as antihistamines to prevent adverse reactions.
Common Allergens in Dallas, TX
According to Dr. Jackee Kayser, a pediatric allergist at the Specialty for Children and Dell Children’s Medical Center, TX says common allergen sources include oak, Mountain cedar, cedar elm, grasses, as well as household dust and mold. From late December to Late February, Mountain cedar pollen is the major allergen while pollen from trees that bloom in spring like oak and walnut is prevalent from late February to early April. Grass-based allergens tend to proliferate from early April to late June, the Dallas Food Allergy Center reports. The period spanning late June to late August is relatively allergen free making it the ideal time for residents of Dallas to explore the countryside. Moreover, ragweed and cedar elm allergens tend to proliferate from late August/early September to early November. Household allergens such dust and mold occur when the surrounding environment permits. In other words, they are not subject to seasonal cycles. Nevertheless, some environmental scientists and researchers are warning that climate change could wreak havoc on allergen distribution. For example, according to a CBS DFW publication, an extremely strong gust of southwest wind pushed the daily pollen count in northern Texas to 3,884 on January 23, 2014.
Allergy Symptoms
Dr. William R. Lumry, professor of Internal Medicine at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School in Dallas and founding director of the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America says allergy symptoms can mimic cold or sinus infection symptoms. This notwithstanding, allergy symptoms include sneezing, nasal stuffiness, sniffling, runny nose, fatigue, skin redness and swelling, and in some cases headaches.
Preventative Measures
Dr. Jackee Kayser recommends keeping doors and windows closed even in summer to prevent allergens such as pollen from entering your home. In addition, wash your pillowcases regularly to remove hair and dust particles because they could trigger allergic reactions. It can also help to do regular breathing exercises for healthy lung regulation, or learn yoga for stress management to keep your hormone levels in balance. What’s more, you should keep oral antihistamines and nasal sprays at hand. If these prove ineffective, you should get allergy shots and consult an allergy specialist if the shots fail to work.
Conclusion
According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, allergies are a big problem in Dallas, TX. The main allergens in Dallas, TX include plant pollen, dust, and mold, and smoke (cigarette, auto, and fire). Fortunately, you can prevent allergic reactions by getting allergy shots at reputable healthcare facilities such as the Central Park ENT.