It’s that time of year again! The time when millions of Americans suffer from itchy eyes, runny noses, and sneezing fits. That’s right, allergies are upon us! But why are allergies so prevalent in the United States? Here are some of the main reasons why.
America is a melting pot
The United States is home to people from all over the world. About 14% of the overall population in the country are immigrants, and with that comes a whole host of different allergies. When different cultures and races mix, it’s not uncommon for their immune systems to clash. This can result in more allergies and sensitivities than would otherwise be present.
Processed foods
Many foods we eat in the United States are processed, and many of these processed foods contain ingredients that can trigger allergies. For example, artificial preservatives and flavorings are common allergens, as are some types of fish and shellfish. Processed foods often contain high levels of these allergens, which can trigger reactions in people who are sensitive to them.
Pesticides
Pesticides are chemicals used to kill pests and are often used on crops to keep them free of insects and other unwanted critters. Unfortunately, pesticides can also harm humans, particularly those allergic to them. Pesticide exposure has been linked to an increased risk of developing allergies, so it’s no wonder allergies are so prevalent in the United States.
Pollen season
Pollen is one of the most common triggers for allergies, and there’s no shortage of it in the United States! Pollen levels tend to be highest in the spring and summer, but even in the winter, there’s still enough pollen floating around to trigger reactions in susceptible individuals.
Allergies are on the rise.
Allergies are becoming more and more common all over the world, not just in the United States. Some experts believe that rising allergies may be due to increased global travel and trade and climate change (which can cause pollen levels to fluctuate). Whatever the reason, it’s clear that allergies are on the rise globally, not just in America.
Allergies are problematic in any household, especially now that they are rising. If you want to reduce allergies in your home, here are some of the best options.
Allergy-Proof Your Home
The first step you should take is making the necessary renovations to allergy-proof your home. Here are some great options for that:
Use HVAC During Pollen Season
You must renovate your home to accommodate an HVAC or a home air conditioning and heating system. This will help to remove pollen and other allergens from the air in your home so that you can breathe easier; also, ensure that your HVAC comes with a HEPA filter. This kind of filter can remove 99.7 percent of allergens that are floating around in your home.
Replace Carpeting with Hardwood Floors
Carpeting is known to harbor all sorts of allergens, including pollen, dust mites, and pet dander. If you have allergies, removing your carpets and replacing them with hardwood floors or tiles is best. Not only will this help to reduce allergens in your home, but it will also be easier to keep clean.
Put Screens on Windows and Doors
Another great way to reduce allergens in your home is to put screens on your windows and doors. This will help to keep pollen and other outdoor allergens from coming into your home, and it will also help to keep pests out.
Making the necessary renovations above can drastically reduce allergies in your household. However, you should hire a professional if you didn’t do these renovations yourself. A general contractor can help you renovate your home to your liking. They might even suggest other ways to reduce allergens that you haven’t thought of before.
Stock Up on the Necessary Medications
Dealing with allergies requires you to have the necessary medications, especially if you have severe allergies. For example, ensure you have an antihistamine like Zyrtec or Allegra and an EpiPen if you’re allergic to bee stings. It’s also a good idea to have a supply of over-the-counter allergy medication like Claritin in case you run out of your prescription medication.
Get Treatment for Your Allergies
If you find that your allergies are severe, it’s a good idea to seek treatment from an allergist. An allergist can help you to identify your triggers and develop a plan to deal with your allergies. They can also prescribe stronger medication if necessary.
If you have allergies, it’s essential to be prepared. Allergies can be a nuisance, but they don’t have to ruin your life. With the proper precautions, you can still enjoy all the activities you love despite your allergies.
