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Though the Monsoon brings relief from the scorching heat, it also marks the beginning of seasonal allergies. Imagine stepping outside into the cool, damp air, only to find yourself sneezing, coughing, or battling a stuffy nose within minutes. Why does this happen? Why do allergies spike during the monsoon season? These are questions many ask as soon as they notice their monsoon allergy symptoms flare up with the rain.
Monsoon allergies are a common issue, affecting millions of people across the world. Many studies have consistently shown a correlation between monsoon seasons and a surge in allergic rhinitis and asthma cases. Let’s understand the common types of monsoon allergies, their causes, and effective management strategies to help you breathe easier through the rainy season.
Synopsis
Understanding Monsoon Allergies?
Monsoon allergies basically are allergic reactions triggered by the damp, humid environment that the rainy season brings. The moisture in the air creates the perfect conditions for allergens like mould, pollen, and dust mites to thrive. This can lead to skin irritations, breathing issues, and a range of allergic symptoms.
Allergens That Cause Monsoon Allergies
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Pollen: Carried by wind and rain, pollen levels rise in the atmosphere during monsoon and causes pollen allergy. It also triggers allergic rhinitis and asthma.
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Mould: Mould thrives in damp, humid conditions, growing on walls, ceilings, carpets, and furniture. Mould spores can lead to respiratory issues and skin rashes.
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Dust Mites: These microscopic creatures thrive in humid environments and are commonly found in bedding, upholstery, and curtains, triggering allergic reactions such as itchy and red eyes, wheezing etc. It is also very common to develop a sneezing allergy in the rainy season
Common Monsoon Allergies:
Monsoon allergies are a frequent concern for many as the rainy season sets in. The sudden shift in weather conditions that often marked by increased moisture and humidity. It creates a breeding ground for various allergens. The allergens are easily carried by the wind and often enter homes, schools, and workplaces, triggering allergic reactions in susceptible individuals. Some of the most common weather allergies are discussed below:
1. Allergic Rhinitis
Allergic rhinitis or hay fever is a common allergic condition that causes inflammation in the nose.
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Symptoms: Frequent sneezing, runny or blocked nose, itchy eyes, and throat.
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Triggers: Pollen from flowering plants, mould spores in the air, and dust mites that thrive in humid conditions.
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Impact: Allergic rhinitis in the rainy season is one of the most common conditions and is often mistaken for the common cold, though the symptoms last longer and are triggered by environmental factors rather than viruses.
2. Asthma
It’s a chronic lung condition. In this condition the airways get tightened while inhaling an allergen, causing breathing difficulties.
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Symptoms: Wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath.
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Triggers: Mould spores, pollen, and air pollutants that become more prevalent in the humid air.
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Impact: Asthma can worsen during the monsoon due to the rise in air pollution and humidity. Damp conditions allow mould to grow, which can trigger severe asthma attacks, especially in those with pre-existing respiratory conditions.
3. Conjunctivitis (Eye Allergies)
Conjunctivitis or pink eye is an eye condition that is generally caused by an infection or allergic reaction. It’s an inflammation of the conjunctiva, spread through direct contact or contaminated rainwater.
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Symptoms: Red, itchy, watery eyes, sometimes accompanied by swelling of the eyelids.
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Triggers: Exposure to pollen, dust, or bacterial infections that are more common in the rainy season.
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Impact: Conjunctivitis is often seen during monsoon due to increased bacterial growth and allergens in the air, causing discomfort and irritation.
4. Skin Allergies (Atopic Dermatitis, Eczema)
Monsoon skin allergies or contact dermatitis are reactions of irritants or allergens. Monsoon brings a lot of different skin rashes and allergies due to increased allergens in the air with humidity and decreased temperature.
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Symptoms: Rashes, hives, dry or scaly skin, and eczema flare-ups are some of the monsoon allergy symptoms.
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Triggers: High humidity levels, exposure to mould, and irritants like damp clothes or polluted water.
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Impact: Skin allergies tend to flare up during the rainy season due to increased moisture in the air, which makes the skin more susceptible to infections, irritation, and fungal growth.
Consult our internal medicine specialist in Mangalore if you are experiencing monsoon allergies symptoms.
Tips to Manage Monsoon Allergies
Managing monsoon allergies involves a combination of avoiding common allergens, using medications, and adopting healthy habits to reduce symptoms. Here are some practical tips to keep monsoon allergy symptoms under control:
1. Avoid Common Triggers
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Pollen: Stay indoors during peak pollen hours (early morning and late afternoon), especially on windy days to avoid pollen allergy. Use air purifiers to filter indoor air.
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Mould: Keep your house dry by using dehumidifiers and ensuring proper ventilation. Clean damp areas like bathrooms and kitchens regularly to prevent mould build-up.
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Dust Mites: Wash bedding, pillow covers, and curtains regularly in hot water. Use allergen-proof covers for mattresses and pillows to reduce exposure to dust mites.
2. Keep Your Environment Clean
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Regularly clean and vacuum carpets, upholstery, and curtains to reduce dust build-up.
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Avoid indoor plants that may harbour mould.
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Keep windows closed during rainy days to prevent allergens from entering your home.
3. Use Medications
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Over-the-counter (OTC) Medications: Use antihistamines and decongestants to relieve symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes.
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Prescription Medications: For more severe allergies, your doctor may allergy medications to control inflammation and respiratory symptoms.
4. Try Home Remedies
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Saline Nasal Rinses: Rinsing your nasal passages with saline solution can help clear allergens and reduce nasal congestion.
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Cool Compresses: Use cool compresses to soothe itchy, red eyes caused by allergic conjunctivitis.
5. Boost Your Immune System
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Eat a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to strengthen your immune system and help your body fight off any weather allergy.
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Stay hydrated to keep your respiratory system clear and functioning well.
When to See a Doctor:
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If your symptoms are severe or persistent despite home remedies and over-the-counter treatments.
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If you experience difficulty breathing or your asthma worsens.
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If skin allergies or conjunctivitis become recurrent or severe.
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For a proper diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your symptoms and triggers.
Conclusion
Monsoon season allergies, though troublesome, can be managed with the right approach. One can navigate the rainy season with minimal discomfort with the proper knowledge about the common triggers, symptoms, causes and when to seek medical advice. If you find your symptoms are worsening or persistent, don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare professional for tailored treatment. Visit the Internal Medicine department at KMC Hospital for expert care and advice on managing monsoon allergies to ensure a healthier and more comfortable season.
FAQ's
Yes, monsoon allergies can cause skin rashes due to mould, dust mites, or high humidity, leading to conditions like eczema or hives.
No, while symptoms like sneezing and congestion are similar, allergies are triggered by allergens like mould and dust, whereas colds are caused by viruses.
Foods rich in Vitamin C, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids, like citrus fruits, ginger, and nuts, help boost immunity and reduce allergy symptoms.
Rain itself doesn’t trigger allergies, but stagnant water promotes the growth of mould and attracts dust mites, both of which can lead to allergic reactions.
Treatments include over-the-counter antihistamines, nasal sprays, decongestants, and, in severe cases, prescription allergy medication from a healthcare provider.
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