What Are The Top Allergens In July Across The Country?

July Allergies in the Northern United States 

For those residing in the Northern United States, July marks the beginning of a new allergy season. As temperatures rise, so do the levels of allergens such as weeds and grasses. In fact, summer weeds like ragweed and pigweed can be particularly problematic for allergy sufferers. These allergens can cause symptoms such as itchy eyes, sneezing, and congestion, making it difficult to enjoy the summer months. While grass pollen levels will begin to taper off towards the end of July to mid-August.

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Top July allergens:

• Tumbleweed
• Bermuda grass
• Dust mites

July Allergies in the Southern United States

As we move into the heart of summer, those in the Southern United States, particularly in states like Florida and Texas, can expect to see high levels of allergens such as Bermuda grass, Timothy grass, and mold. These allergens are particularly prevalent during the summer months due to the hot and humid conditions that create the perfect environment for their growth. And with the hot and humid conditions in both states, mold spores are also on the rise and can cause significant discomfort for those with mold allergies. With all of these allergens floating through the air, it can be difficult to decipher what is causing your allergies. We always recommend an allergy test to figure out exactly what is causing your allergies. 

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Top July allergens:

• Bermuda grass
• Timothy grass
• Mold

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July Allergens in the Eastern United States

As July rolls around, those in the Eastern United States can expect high levels of allergens such as Bermuda grass, dust mites, and mold. Bermuda grass is a common allergen in this region due to its ability to thrive in warm and humid conditions. Dust mites and mold, on the other hand, are year-round allergens but they tend to peak during the summer months due to increased humidity levels. It’s important to stay informed about pollen levels in your area. And now you can with our free allergy calendar. This valuable tool allows you to quickly and easily check the pollen forecast for each season, so you can plan your outdoor activities accordingly.

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Top July allergens:

• Bermuda grass
• Dust mites
• Mold

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July Allergies in the Western United States

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As July arrives, those in the Western United States, particularly in states like Arizona and New Mexico, and Colorado can expect high levels of allergens such as Bermuda grass, ryegrass, and dust mites. Thanks to Arizona's dry climate, it's common to have breezes that allow pollen to travel for miles on end, making it difficult for allergy sufferers to escape the effects of grass pollen. The grass allergy season can also extend into August or September if conditions are favorable, meaning that those with grass allergies may have to endure symptoms for an extended period. Ryegrass is another common allergen in this region, causing symptoms such as itchy eyes, runny nose, and congestion. And while dust mites are a year-round allergen, their pollen levels tend to spike during the summer months due to increased humidity levels. 

Top July allergens:

• Bermuda grass
• Ryegrass
• Dust Mites

Top July Allergies Across the Country:

Bermuda Grass: 

Bermuda grass is a warm-season grass that is prevalent in the southern United States, but can also be found all across the United States, especially during the summer months. Unfortunately, this grass is typically a severe allergen for many individuals, causing a range of symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and throat irritation. Bermuda grass produces a large amount of pollen, which can easily be carried by the wind and travel long distances. Furthermore, Bermuda grass can have a long pollinating season, typically beginning in May and extending through late July, making it a persistent allergen throughout the summer months. If you're experiencing allergy symptoms during these months, it's important to speak with a healthcare professional to determine if Bermuda grass is the culprit and to discuss appropriate treatment options.

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Symptoms of bermuda grass allergies:

• Itchy, watery eyes
• Coughing
• Congestion
• Sore throat
• Grass Allergy Rash (a form of contact dermatitis)
• Constant sneezing or wheezing

How to prevent bermuda grass allergy symptoms and reduce allergy exposure:

• When cutting grass, it's important to wear protective gear such as a mask and sunglasses to reduce inhalation and irritation caused by grass pollen.
  
  
• Grasses release pollen once they reach a certain length, so it's recommended to maintain a short lawn length to decrease the amount of pollen released.
  
  
• After spending time outdoors, it's important to rinse off and change clothes to remove pollen from your skin and hair. This can significantly reduce the amount of pollen you bring indoors and help alleviate allergy symptoms. 

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Bermuda grass allergy treatments:

If you're struggling with grass allergy symptoms, it's crucial to take action to prevent them from worsening over time. One highly effective treatment option is allergy shots, which gradually increase your body's tolerance to allergens by administering small doses at regular intervals (usually every two weeks).

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Another option for increasing tolerance to grass pollen is allergy drops, which work similarly to allergy shots but are portable, painless, and a preferred option for busy families and children.

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For those seeking a more efficient treatment, our ExACT Immunoplasty treatment is just as effective as three years' worth of allergy shots but requires only three injections over eight weeks. This is an excellent option for those who are tired of experiencing constant sneezing and itchy eyes due to a bermuda grass allergy.

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Dust Mites 

Dust mites are microscopic creatures that feed on dead skin cells, which are often found in household dust, which tends to build up in upholstered areas around the house including couches, mattresses, and curtains. They are one of the most common indoor allergens and can cause symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. If you suffer from morning or night allergies, it can most likely be attributed to dust mites. In July, dust mites thrive due to increased humidity levels in both indoor and outdoor areas. Dust mites absorb moisture from the air, and in humid conditions, they can absorb more moisture and survive longer. This is one of the reasons why dust mites are considered perennial allergens, as the conditions they need to thrive are usually constant. 

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Dust Mite Allergy Symptoms:

If you experience these symptoms, it could be due to a dust mite allergy. However, seasonal allergies often look the same, so it might be in your best interest to get an allergy test to know exactly what you're allergic to. 

• Sneezing
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Itchy or watery eyes
• Itchy nose or throat
• Postnasal drip
• Cough 

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Dust Mite Allergy Prevention:

• To reduce exposure to dust mites, it's recommended to use allergen-proof covers on pillows, mattresses, and box springs, which can help prevent dust mites from colonizing these areas and reduce the amount of allergens in the air you breathe while you sleep.
  
  
• Washing your bedding, including sheets and pillowcases, in hot water (130°F) every week can help kill dust mites and remove allergens from your bedding, reducing your exposure to these allergens and potentially reducing your allergy symptoms.
  
  
• Keeping indoor humidity levels below 50% can help reduce the growth of dust mites, as they thrive in humid environments. Using a dehumidifier or air conditioner can help control indoor humidity levels and reduce the number of dust mites in your home, potentially reducing your allergy symptoms.

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Dust Mite Allergy Treatments:

If you experience symptoms such as rashes, hives, or difficulty breathing due to allergies, consider taking an antihistamine to alleviate the symptoms.

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If you notice your dust mite allergies are that bad, it might be worth looking into long-term treatment options such as, allergy drops, allergy shots, or ExACT Immunoplasty to eliminate your dust mite allergy. 

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Mold

Mold allergies are allergic reactions to mold spores that become airborne and are inhaled. These spores can be found both indoors and outdoors, and mold allergy symptoms can range from mild to severe. While indoor mold is typically a year-round allergen, in the summer months, mold spores tend to spike due to increased humidity levels, which create an ideal environment for mold growth. This is especially true in areas in your home that are prone to moisture, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. However, being outdoors can also expose individuals to mold spores, particularly when spending time by the pool. Pool decks, pool toys, and towels can all harbor mold spores, which can become airborne and trigger allergy symptoms.

Mold Allergy Symptoms:

Some common mold allergy symptoms you might experience look like:

• Sneezing
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Itchy or watery eyes
• Itchy nose or throat
• Postnasal drip
• Coughing
• Wheezing
• Shortness of breath
• Skin rash or hives

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Mold Allergy Prevention Tips:

• To reduce mold growth and prevent mold allergies, it's recommended to keep indoor humidity levels below 50%, which can be achieved by using a dehumidifier. This can help reduce moisture levels in the air and prevent the growth of mold spores in areas that are prone to moisture, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.
  
  
• Fixing any leaks or water damage promptly can help prevent mold growth and reduce the risk of mold allergies. It's important to clean and dry any damp materials within 48 hours of getting wet.
  
  
• Keeping pool items, such as towels and toys, clean and dry can help prevent the growth of mold spores and reduce the risk of mold allergies. It's important to wash pool toys and towels regularly to prevent the growth of mold spores, and to ensure that they are completely dry before storing them. Additionally, keeping pool decks and surrounding areas clean and dry can help prevent the growth of mold spores and reduce the risk of mold-related health problems.

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Mold Allergy Treatments:

Thankfully, there are several treatment options available for mold allergies. While over-the-counter medications can provide temporary relief, long-term solutions like allergy shots, allergy drops, or our ExACT Immunoplasty treatment can address the root cause of your allergy. These treatments can help desensitize your immune system to mold spores, reducing your sensitivity and preventing future allergic reactions. Unlike symptom-relieving medications, these treatments provide lasting relief and can significantly improve your quality of life.

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How Aspire Allergy & Sinus Can Help Your July Allergies

Are you tired of struggling with allergies and experiencing persistent symptoms that affect your quality of life? Aspire Allergy & Sinus is here to provide comprehensive allergy diagnosis and treatment options to help you find relief. Our team of experts offers advanced diagnostic tools and cutting-edge treatments that have helped countless patients improve their allergy symptoms. By identifying the root cause of your allergies, we can develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs. Our goal is to help you take control of your allergies and improve your quality of life. Don't let allergies continue to control your life - book an appointment with Aspire Allergy & Sinus today and start living your best life.

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