Environmental Allergies

Environmental allergies can affect you during certain seasons or throughout the year, occurring from allergens inside or outside your home. Denver Allergy & Asthma Associates specialists provide allergy testing, treatment, and effective therapies to treat environmental allergies. To learn more or to schedule an evaluation, reach out to the office nearest you in Boulder, Lakewood, Westminster, Denver, Littleton, or Arvada, Colorado. Call the administrative team today or book online.

What are environmental allergies?

Environmental allergies, also known as allergic rhinitis or hay fever, are immune system reactions triggered by exposure to certain substances in your environment. When you have environmental allergies, your immune system mistakenly identifies harmless substances, such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or mold spores, as threats and reacts accordingly.

What causes environmental allergies?

Various factors can cause environmental allergies. Common triggers include:

• Pollen from trees
• Grasses
• Weeds
• Dust mites
• Mold spores
• Pet dander
• Certain irritants in the air (i.e., smoke, strong odors)

When your immune system encounters these triggers, it releases chemicals, such as histamine, which cause inflammation and lead to allergy symptoms.

What are the symptoms of environmental allergies?

Symptoms of environmental allergies typically affect the nose, eyes, throat, and lungs. Common symptoms include:

• Sneezing
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Itchy and watery eyes
• Coughing
• Postnasal drip
• Fatigue

In some cases, allergic rhinitis can also exacerbate asthma symptoms, leading to wheezing and shortness of breath.

How can environmental allergies be avoided?

Avoiding triggers is an essential aspect of managing environmental allergies, which may include:

• Keeping windows closed during high pollen seasons
• Using air purifiers or HEPA filters
• Regularly vacuuming and dusting your home
• Minimizing contact with pets
• Implementing allergen control measures

The Denver Allergy & Asthma Associates team can provide additional guidance on reducing your exposure to allergens.

How are environmental allergies treated?

Treatment for environmental allergies may include both medication and allergen immunotherapy. Medications such as antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, and decongestants can help alleviate symptoms. Your allergist at Denver Allergy & Asthma Associates works with you to determine the most suitable medications based on your symptoms and medical history.

Allergen immunotherapy, in the form of allergy shots or sublingual immunotherapy, is a long-term treatment option that can help desensitize your immune system to specific allergens. It involves regular injections or dissolvable tablets that gradually expose you to increasing amounts of the allergen over time, reducing your sensitivity and symptoms.

Your provider assesses your needs and develops a personalized treatment plan tailored to your allergies. They also provide education and resources to help you manage your condition effectively and improve your quality of life.

You can rely on the Denver Allergy & Asthma Associates team to help identify your triggers, provide effective treatment options, and offer guidance on allergen avoidance strategies.

Reach out by phone or online today to book an appointment.