The Sad Truth About Environmental Allergies

Allergies to substances in nature and in your environment (e.g. house) can make everyday life a very unpleasant and uncomfortable experience. Playing sport with itchy eyes, or pockets full of tissue paper can be an absolute nightmare! Even day to day activities like cleaning the house or walking the dog can be hindered because you are afraid of the symptoms you’ll face.

Either way environmental allergies are not fun, and can really make you feel down in the dumps especially if it’s stopping you from doing something you enjoy (ah..maybe not the cleaning though).

What’s interesting to note about environmental allergies is that many of us have it in some form or another, yet many assume that sneezing from dust is just a natural reaction – nay nay!

Sneezing in the presence of dust can sometimes be a natural reaction but in other instances it is certainly not. The following is a breakdown of the more common environmental allergies many face on a daily basis, in an effort to ‘clear the air’ about what is a natural reaction and what is in fact an allergy.

Dust and Dust Mites

Dust mites are microscopic relatives of the spider that live on your mattresses, bedding, furniture, carpets and curtains.
Pollen

Pollens in Australia are most commonly found in grass, weeds and trees.

The pollen producing grasses include; rye grass, bermuda couch grass, annual and Kentucky blue grass, paspalum, and prairie grass.

The most allergenic producing trees in Australia are the wattle tree, silver birch, maple, olive, poplar, ash and oak trees.

Last but not least, the pollen found in plantain weeds can be greatly responsible for seasonal allergies in individuals.

Cockroaches

The proteins found in cockroach droppings as well as the saliva and body make this insect one irritating pest.

Mould

Mould can be found indoors and outdoors, producing allergenic substances called spores and fungal structures that can be inhaled creating allergic responses.

Indoor mould can be found in air conditioners and dehumidifiers that are regularly cleaned, also in laundry rooms, bathrooms and damp basements. Anywhere that is moist, warm and dark will allow easy growth of mould.

Outdoor mould is seasonal, often appearing first in spring which can trigger many seasonal allergies in sensitive people. It is found in moist areas such as soil, compost piles, rotting wood and fallen leaves.

Cigarette Smoke

Cigarette smoke contains numerous chemicals and irritants that can exacerbate those with asthma, and also aggravate allergies. It can contribute to respiratory infections, sinusitis and bronchitis if exposed to it for long periods.

Now that your a little more aware about environmental allergies we’ll take a look at the root cause of why you may be suffering from allergies in the first place.