Because they change with the seasons, outdoor allergies are often called seasonal allergies . An allergy is a sensitivity of your immune system to something that is ordinarily harmless. Seasonal allergies are caused by an overreaction of the immune system to certain allergens found outside, from sources like those from mould spores and tree, grass or weed pollens. The duration, start and end date of seasonal allergies vary significantly from one year to the next at any particular location.
While seasonal allergens can be difficult to avoid because it seems like they're everywhere, there are things you can do to minimise your exposure to them.
Select an allergy to learn more:
ALLERGY SYMPTOMS
ITCHY, WATERY EYES
SNEEZING
ITCHY NOSE OR THROAT
ITCHY SKIN (HIVES)
Pollen Allergies
Overview
One of the most common triggers for seasonal allergies are pollen . They are small, light and dry, so the wind can carry them. Pollen counts can vary day-to-day, depending on several factors, including the weather. For example, dry, windy weather spreads pollen quickly. However, heavy rains and humid weather conditions weigh down pollen, keeping it on the ground. In general, plants and trees that pollinate via wind cause the most problems for people with seasonal allergies.
Grass Pollen: There are hundreds of different grass types. However, only some cause allergies. The most common types of grasses that cause allergies include Rye, Bermuda, Johnson, Kentucky, Orchard, Sweet Vernal, Bahia and Timothy. Grasses usually pollinate in the late spring and early summer however depending on where you live, grasses may pollinate across many seasons and could trigger symptoms all year round.
Tree Pollen: When it comes to trees, watch out for white cedar, cypress, pine, olive, birch, oak, elm, maple, ash, alder and hazel. These trees generally pollinate from late winter to the end of spring, depending on where you live.
DID YOU KNOW?
Ragweed, a major source of pollen allergies, has been discovered as far as 650 kilometers out to sea and up to three kilometers in the atmosphere.
Tips for Pollen Allergy Sufferers
- BEAT THE CLOCK
Pollen counts are typically highest in the morning and at dusk, so try to plan outside activities for other times of the day.
- COVER UP
Wear a mask when you're working in the garden or doing other outside chores.
- MAKE A CHANGE
Pollen can hitch a ride on your shoes, clothing and hair and get tracked inside. After spending time outdoors, be sure to remove your shoes, take a quick shower and change your clothes to remove pollen.
- CLEAR THE AIR
When driving, keep windows up and set the air conditioner on "recirculate." At home, keep windows closed and use air conditioning. Be sure to change your filters often.
- BRANCH OUT
Looking to plant trees on your property? Avoid trees that can aggravate allergies, including white cedar, cypress, pine, olive, birch, oak, elm, maple, ash, alder and hazel. Instead, go with species such as lilly pilly, willow myrtle, coastal banksia, citrus or scribbly gum.
- GROW SMART
Some common types of grass produce more pollen spores, including Rye, Bahia, Timothy, Johnson, Bermuda, Orchard, Kentucky and Sweet Vernal grasses. Instead, try planting the female buffalo grass plant as it does not flower and therefore produces little to no pollen. Avoid planting sunflowers, daisies and chrysanthemums in your yard. If you’re not sure what to plant, ask your local garden centre before you buy.
Mould Allergies
Overview
A mould allergy can be triggered by microscopic mould spores that float in the air like pollen causing uncomfortable mould allergy symptoms. Many people think of mould as an indoor issue only. But mould also thrive in shady, damp areas outside, including on soil, plants, rotting wood, compost piles or dead leaves.
Since mould thrives in damp spaces, mould allergy symptoms may be more common during the summer months when it’s hot and humid. Although, mould may be prevalent year-round in warmer climates around Australia and New Zealand. While some pollen spores die during the winter months, mould spores simply go dormant during that time. And when spring comes, the spores grow back.
DID YOU KNOW?
While some moulds form colonies that you can see with the unaided eye, others can only be viewed under a microscope. So, just because you can’t see the mould , doesn’t mean it’s not there!
Tips for Mould Allergy Sufferers
- LEAVE IT OUTSIDE
Your shoes, clothing and hair can all be magnets for mould spores. Remove your shoes before entering your home and be sure to shower and change clothes right away after spending time outside. If you’re pinched for time, at least wash your hands and face well after coming in.
- MAKE FRIENDS WITH THE RAKE
Mould spores can collect on fallen leaves. So be sure to rake your yard often. Since raking can stir mould spores into the air, wear a mask while tackling this chore. Or, better yet, enlist the help of another member of the family who isn’t allergic to mould.
- MASK MOULD SPORES
Wear a mask to help reduce your exposure to mould spores when cutting grass, raking leaves or digging around plants. Or, better yet, enlist the help of another family member who isn’t allergic to mould.
- SKIP THE LINE
Bedding or clothing hung out to dry on a clothes line may pick up mould spores, along with other allergens. If possible, dry your clothes inside or use a dryer instead.
