Allergies are a common problem for many people, and they can be especially frustrating when they seem to be getting worse over time.
While there may be many reasons why your allergies are getting worse, we’ve identified four common factors that could be the cause. Read on to find out what they are and what you can do about them.
1. Seasonal Changes
One of the most obvious reasons why your allergies could be getting worse lately is because of seasonal changes. During certain times of the year, pollen levels can be particularly high, which can trigger allergies in many people.
For example, if you’re allergic to grass pollen and spring is in full swing, you may find that your symptoms are more severe than usual.
While you can’t control the seasons, there are steps you can take to manage your symptoms. For example, you can limit your exposure to pollen by staying indoors as much as possible on days when the pollen count is high.
You can also use over-the-counter allergy medications to help alleviate your symptoms.
2. Environmental Triggers
In addition to seasonal changes, there may be other environmental factors that are exacerbating your allergies. For example, if you have a pet allergy, spending time in a house with a lot of pets could make your symptoms worse.
Similarly, if you have a mold allergy, being in a damp environment could trigger your symptoms.
To address environmental triggers, it’s important to identify what they are and take steps to avoid them.
For example, if you’re allergic to pets, you may want to avoid spending time in houses with pets or ask your friends to keep their pets out of the room when you’re around. If you have a mold allergy, you may want to invest in a dehumidifier to help reduce the moisture in your environment.
3. Immune System Changes
Another factor that could be making your allergies worse is changes in your immune system.
For example, if you’re going through a stressful period in your life, your immune system may be compromised, which could make you more susceptible to allergens. Or, if you’ve recently had a cold or flu, your immune system may be weak, which could exacerbate your allergy symptoms.
To address immune system changes, it’s important to focus on supporting your overall health. This means eating a healthy diet, getting plenty of rest, and exercising regularly.
You may also want to consider taking supplements or herbs that can help boost your immune system.
4. Increased Exposure to Allergens
Finally, if your allergies are seeming worse lately, it could be because you’re simply exposed to more allergens than you used to be.
For example, if you recently moved to a new city, there may be different allergens in the air that you haven’t been exposed to before. Or, if you’ve started a new job, you may be exposed to new allergens in your workplace.
To address increased exposure to allergens, it’s important to identify what they are and take steps to avoid them.
For example, if you’re allergic to dust mites and you’ve recently moved to a new apartment, you may want to invest in a HEPA filter to help remove dust from the air. If you’re allergic to certain chemicals, you may want to talk to your employer about possible alternatives.