The Allergy and Asthma Foundation of America ranks San Antonio in the top 5 most challenging places to live with seasonal allergies.
Allergies are chronic conditions which trigger the immune system to react to an external substance. Up to 20 percent of the population struggle with allergies at some point during the year.
Unexpected sneezing, coughing and itchy, watery eyes are familiar symptoms caused by allergens in the air, which peak at different times of the year depending on the spore.
Common outdoor allergens include pollen and molds. Oak pollen, mountain cedar and ragweed are commonly found in central and south Texas.
Allergic reactions can also be caused by pet dander, stinging insects, dust mites, latex, and certain foods or medicines.
These bodily responses often depend on the person, which can range from a stuffy nose, cough or rash to more serious reactions like swelling in the mouth and throat.
Anaphylaxis – a rapidly developing and serious allergic reaction – can affect multiple body systems at the same time and if severe enough, can be fatal.
How do you know what you're allergic to? Are antihistemines enough to help your immune system deal with allergies?
How do environmental factors affect the prevalence of allergies in Texas? What other treatments, remedies and habits can help you cope?
Guests:
- Kenneth Mendez, president and CEO of the Allergy and Asthma Foundation of America
- Dr. Eliseo Villalobos, physician at the Allergy Institute of San Antonio
- Dr. Adelita Cantu, associate professor in the School of Nursing at UT Health San Antonio and public health nurse with expertise in environmental health issues
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