What Are Airborne Allergies?
Airborne allergies are typical seasonal allergies or “hayfever” that many suffer in the spring when grass and tree pollens are prevalent, and in the fall when weeds such as ragweed pollen is in the air, and in the middle of winter when, in our area of Texas, mountain cedar is prevalent. Usual symptoms consist of nasal blockage, itchy runny nose, and eye itching. Seasonal asthma is less common. These seasonal allergies change with the direction of the wind, usually decrease when indoors and when traveling to another area. Some airborne allergy symptoms can be perennial, especially from animal dander such as cat, from house dust mites in bedding, and from mold, especially if there has been a water leak or high humidity levels in a house or a building such as at work or school. The immune system makes an antibody called IgE, that attaches to the airborne allergens. This antibody can be detected with a high level of accuracy in a blood test called RAST. Skin testing is also a reliable test
